BankSouth to Acquire State Bank of Cochran

Greensboro, GA and Cochran, GA – BankSouth announced that it has entered into an agreement with Central Georgia Banking Company to acquire State Bank of Cochran, also operating under the names of First Laurens Bank in Dexter and Dublin, and Community Bank of Johnson County in Wrightsville.

State Bank of Cochran is a locally owned community bank with deep roots dating back to 1921 and a strong presence in central Georgia, including Bleckley, Laurens, and Johnson Counties. With four full-service branches operating under the State Bank of Cochran, First Laurens Bank, and Community Bank of Johnson County names, the bank offers modern banking services while maintaining a tradition of personal, hometown service.

“This purchase and assumption agreement provides the opportunity for a solid presence in the central Georgia market, and it just makes sense for where we’re headed,” says Harold Reynolds, President and CEO of BankSouth. “We’re joining forces with a bank that’s not only financially strong, with a loyal customer base and dedicated team members, but one that shares the same values we do. They’re good people who care about their customers and communities, just like we do. That cultural fit is what really makes this exciting.”

Upon closing, customers of State Bank of Cochran, First Laurens Bank, and Community Bank of Johnson County will continue working with the same familiar bankers, receiving the local service and support they rely on every day.

“From the beginning, it was clear that BankSouth shares our values – putting people first, supporting local communities, and building lasting relationships,” said Jackie Bowen, President of State Bank of Cochran. “This partnership isn’t about changing who we are; it’s about joining with a bank that complements our strengths and enhances what we can offer our customers. It’s the right move for our team, our customers, and the future of community banking in the markets we proudly serve.”

The purchase and assumption agreement has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of BankSouth and State Bank of Cochran. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. The closing of the transaction is targeted for the fourth quarter of 2025.

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About BankSouth

BankSouth is a leading community bank headquartered at Lake Oconee in Greensboro, Georgia, and is recognized as a top-performing bank nationwide. With over $1 billion in assets, BankSouth serves customers with branches in Atlanta, Greensboro, Savannah, Watkinsville, and beyond with a full suite of consumer, commercial and digital banking and lending products. Currently, BankSouth Mortgage originates over $1.0 billion in home loans annually with more than 50 experienced loan officers across their twelve locations. For BankSouth locations and more information, please visit banksouth.com.