Colony Bank is proudly celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. As part of the yearlong celebration, Colony recently hosted a luncheon in Fitzgerald to honor the community where it was first chartered in 1975.

The recent luncheon brought together community members, team members, local leaders, and partners to reflect on the past and look ahead to the future. A highlight of the event was remarks from Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, who spoke about the vital role community banks play in fostering economic vitality across rural Georgia.

“Fitzgerald is where our story started, and it will always be a special part of who we are,” said Mark Massee, Chairman of the Board. “My father served on our board, and I’ve had the privilege of watching Colony grow from a single location into a leading community bank across Georgia, and now into Florida and Alabama. This anniversary is a tribute to the strong relationships we’ve built and the enduring support of the communities we serve.”

Heath Fountain, Chief Executive Officer of Colony Bank, shared, “This community believed in us 50 years ago and continues to do so today. We wouldn’t be who we are without the people of Fitzgerald. We’re honored to celebrate this milestone with the town that gave us our start.”

Founded in Fitzgerald in 1975, Colony has grown steadily over the past five decades and now holds the number one deposit market share among community banks in Georgia. While the Bank has expanded its footprint, it remains committed to its community banking roots and to serving its rural communities with the same level of focus and dedication that defined its early years.

Colony will continue its anniversary celebrations in the months ahead with an upcoming bell ringing at the New York Stock Exchange in July and additional community events across its markets.

For more information about Colony Bank and its history, visit:  www.colony.bank