Southern Bank Celebrates 125 Years of Community Commitment

Courtesy of Southern Bank

Southern Bank celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2026, marking over a century of steady growth rooted in community service. Founded in 1901 in Mount Olive, North Carolina, the bank began as a single branch started by local businessmen who saw the need for a trusted financial institution. Today, Southern Bank operates 56 branches across eastern North Carolina and southeastern Virginia, serving Greenville and nearly 50 other communities.

For President L. Taylor Harrell III, the bank’s most meaningful milestones aren’t measured by expansion alone, but by moments when Southern Bank stepped up for the people it serves.

“The biggest moments are when we enter new communities,” Harrell says. “Our impact, our reach and the number of employees involved in supporting our communities have all grown significantly.”

That commitment has been especially evident during times of crisis. Harrell points to multiple hurricane responses and recent flooding in western North Carolina as defining examples. “Our employees volunteered their time, and the bank provided financial support,” Harrell says. “Some employees even traveled to deliver food and supplies. Those are the moments I’m most proud of, when we support communities in need.”

Courtesy of Southern Bank

Southern Bank’s dedication to its customers has remained constant through generations. During the Great Depression, the bank remained open, unlike many other institutions that failed, ensuring customers had continued access to financial services. That reliability is rooted in core values that still guide the organization today.

“Integrity is first and most important,” Harrell says. “It’s about doing what’s right, being trustworthy and keeping our word so customers and communities can depend on us.”

Southern Bank plays a key role in supporting local economic growth by providing financial services to small businesses and families in our community.

“By prioritizing relationships, Southern Bank helps strengthen trust and long-term stability in the Pitt County market,” says Senior Vice President Paul Anderson. Employees play a central role in Southern Bank’s community impact. With over 600 team members, the bank actively supports involvement in local organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, youth programs and health-related fundraising initiatives.

“Our people make the difference,” Harrell says. “We promote a culture of giving back.”

Looking ahead, Harrell says Southern Bank’s future is closely tied to the success of the communities it serves.

“When communities thrive, the bank thrives,” Harrell says. “That’s always been part of our mission, and it will continue to guide us for the next 125 years.”

For more information about Southern Bank, visit southernbank.com/125th.