BankSouth Honors Board Member Mike Garrett Upon Retirement from Board of Directors

Greensboro, GA – BankSouth announces the retirement of longtime board member Mike Garrett, who officially stepped down from the bank’s Board of Directors on April 15, 2025. Garrett served on the board and as Chair of the Audit Committee for nearly a decade, bringing with him a wealth of executive experience, strategic insight, and steady leadership.

Garrett joined the BankSouth board in 2015, shortly after relocating to Morgan County following his retirement from a distinguished 43-year career in the energy industry. During his tenure as a board member, Garrett played a vital role in the bank’s continued growth and expansion, including its strategic advancement in key markets such as Savannah. He was a strong supporter of the bank’s customer-first philosophy and provided valued guidance during important moments of organizational development.

“Mike has been a source of wisdom and thoughtful counsel during his time on our board,” said BankSouth CEO Harold Reynolds. “His experience in leading large, complex organizations brought a unique perspective to the table, and his steady hand has been a tremendous asset to our leadership team. We are grateful for his years of service, dedication, and the positive impact he has had on our team and the communities we serve.”

Prior to joining BankSouth’s board, Garrett held several key leadership roles within the Southern Company, including serving as President and CEO of Georgia Power and later President and CEO of Mississippi Power. His career began in 1968 on a line crew and ultimately spanned more than four decades. Throughout that time, he became known not only for his operational knowledge and leadership acumen, but also for his integrity, humility, and commitment to public service. Garrett also served as Chairman of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce Board and Chairman of the Georgia Department of Economic Development Board, further demonstrating his dedication to advancing the state’s business and economic interests.

At BankSouth, Garrett’s role as a board member extended far beyond attending meetings. Visitors to the Lake Country Discovery Museum within the Lake Oconee branch can see Garrett daily as part of the documentary on the origins of Wallace Dam and Lake Oconee. He also served as a sounding board for executive leadership and was instrumental in key discussions around risk management, market strategy, and community development. Despite describing himself as “just an observer,” Garrett was often the voice of reason and experience when complex decisions were at hand.

“When Mike spoke, people listened,” said Reynolds. “His perspective, grounded in both corporate leadership and community values, helped shape many of the decisions that have made BankSouth what it is today.”

Garrett made the decision to step down due to health reasons that made fulfilling board obligations more difficult. His presence on the board will be deeply missed by his fellow members and the entire BankSouth team.

“We wish Mike and his wife, Karen, all the best as they enjoy this next chapter of life on their family farm in Morgan County,” added Reynolds. “Mike’s leadership and friendship have left a lasting mark on BankSouth, and we are better because of his service.”

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About BankSouth

Today, 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, 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.

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