The Iowa Bankers Association recently honored a First Central State Bank team member for a distinguished 50-year career in banking.
Judy Farrell was honored at the annual Iowa Bankers Association convention. She joined 13 other inductees from around the state of Iowa in receiving the honor.
“I’ve really enjoyed banking my whole life,” said Farrell, who is stationed at First Central’s Clinton-North Second Street location. “I’ve been fortunate to work with some great people during my 50 years.”
Farrell began her banking career at City National Bank in Clinton where she spent 10 years as a teller, bookkeeper, and head teller before taking time off to focus on raising a family.
After a few years, she received a call from Gateway State Bank, and she never looked back. She has been with the former Gateway and current First Central State Bank for 40 years, working as a bookkeeper, teller, and receptionist.
First Central State Bank CEO and President Brigham Tubbs said Farrell’s tenure and dedication to the banking industry is a testament to her strong character.
“Judy has been a valuable team member not only for our day-to-day banking operations, but also as a volunteer in the community,” Tubbs said. “We encourage our team members to be involved in our communities and Judy exemplifies that spirit on a regular basis.”
Farrell is known to volunteer across the First Central State Bank footprint for bank functions, Grilling For Charity fundraisers, and more. In addition, she has been involved with the Clinton County Fair, the Prince of Peace pork supper, and she made 3,000 masks for people in Clinton County during the pandemic.
“Banking has opened a lot of doors for me,” Farrell said. “I’ve always enjoyed giving back, and that’s one of my favorite things about being a part of a community bank.”
Farrell and her husband Larry have two daughters. In their free time, they enjoy attending their grandchildren’s activities, being members of an antique car club, and participating in country dance events.
Ohnward Bancshares, Inc., a billion-dollar plus holding company with 18 financial offices in Eastern Iowa including Maquoketa State Bank with offices in Maquoketa, Andrew, and Preston; Ohnward Bank & Trust with offices in Baldwin, Cascade, Monticello, Marion, Central City and Cedar Rapids; First Central State Bank with offices in DeWitt, LeClaire, Clinton, Goose Lake and Eldridge. Trust services are offered through all banking offices under the Ohnward banner, which includes Ohnward Insurance Group, Central Realty, Ohnward Financial Advisor Services, Ohnward Farm Management, Ohnward Tax, Accounting and Business Services, Vosler Investment Group and Ohnward Wealth & Retirement.
Ohnward Bancshares, Inc., has assets of $1.3 Billion, capital of $150 Million and employs over 260 full and part time employees. Ohnward is locally owned by shareholders living primarily in Jackson, Clinton, Scott, Jones, and Linn Counties. Bank management’s focus continues to be helping clients and communities grow and prosper. The banks and ancillary businesses have a strong record of community and economic development, and educational and cultural support within the markets they serve.
