Ponton Reired from Bank of Botetourt

Stephanie Deacon Ponton is retiring with more than 43 years in banking, 36 of which were with the Bank of Botetourt. Throughout her career at the Bank, Stephanie worked from our offices in Buchanan, Eagle Rock, Troutville and most recently Daleville. During her time with the Bank, she worked in various capacities in operations, lending, customer service, as a teller, and most recently as an officer of the Bank as a branch manager. Prior to joining Bank of Botetourt, Ponton was with Central Fidelity for seven years in operations and lending.

She joined the Bank in 1984 and was present at our Buchanan Office during the Flood of 1985. Stephanie recalls evacuating as the waters rose and breached the town streets and the first floor of the office. She was with the Bank when it converted from manual operations to computers and is one of only three employees that have been with the Bank for more than 34 years. It is safe to say that she has witnessed and played a role in the evolution of banking.

President and CEO, G. Lyn Hayth III stated, “it is bittersweet for the Bank as Stephanie retires. We are happy for her and will greatly miss her experience and guidance as she moves on to the next chapter in her life. Stephanie was here when I began working at the Bank and she has truly been a part of the Bank’s growth and development. We wish her well and all the best in her future.” Stephanie participated in various bank development courses throughout her career while with Bank of Botetourt through the Virginia Bankers Association. As a passionate community banker, she has advocated on behalf of the industry while attending seminars and events. She is a member of the Alzheimer’s Association and Presbyterian Women USA.

In retirement, she plans to volunteer some of her time with the League for Animal Protection, Angels of Assisi and Solomon’s Mission. Stephanie also looks forward to having more time for hobbies she enjoys such as gardening, playing the piano, hiking and antiquing. Ponton was born in Roanoke and grew up in Botetourt. She currently resides in Buchanan with her husband, Dwight and looks forward to spending more time with her family, especially her six grandchildren.

–Submitted by Mary Ann Miller, VP Business Banking and Community Relations