In a world where banking options seem endless and increasingly digital, Southeastern Bank stands as a steadfast reminder of what it means to be rooted in the community, offering more than just financial services. As the holder of the oldest active bank charter in the state of Georgia, Southeastern Bank is celebrating its 135th anniversary this year, marking over a century of unwavering service, strength and commitment to its local communities. For residents of St. Simons and the surrounding areas, the Bank’s island location is much more than a place to manage finances; it’s a symbol of stability and trust.
The Power of Local: Decisions Made by Neighbors for Neighbors
At Southeastern Bank, banking is personal. Local bankers make decisions directly benefiting people and businesses in the community. This community-first approach is a hallmark of the Bank’s service model. The Bank’s team understands the unique needs of the local economy, because they live, work and play in the same communities as their customers. This local decision-making means quicker answers and customized solutions, a distinct advantage for the Bank’s customers.
Southeastern Bank St. Simons Island Team
Keith Crusan, Becca Link, Jessica Jinkins-Sills, Jacinda Creach, and Garrison Ryfun.
When you walk through the doors of Southeastern Bank’s island location, you’re greeted by friendly, familiar faces, including team members Keith Crusan - SVP, Commercial Lending; Becca Link - VP & Branch Manager; Jessica Jinkins-Sills – Universal Banker; Jacinda Creach - Teller, and Garrison Ryfun - Management Trainee. This personal touch differentiates Southeastern Bank, enabling it to understand what individual customers need, whether it’s securing a mortgage for a growing family, helping a small business thrive, tucking money away in a rainy-day fund or all of the above.
A Specialty in Small Business Banking
As the lifeblood of any local economy, small businesses need a banking partner that understands their challenges and opportunities. Southeastern Bank excels in this area, offering specialized small business banking services designed to help businesses on the island and in its other markets succeed. Whether it’s a start-up seeking working capital, or an established business needing new equipment or expansion financing, Southeastern Bank provides solutions for its customers.
Southeastern has speed and flexibility that other banks may not have. Being local, Southeastern doesn’t have to go through the lengthy approval processes often associated with larger financial institutions. Decisions are made locally, by people who understand the unique business climate and personal dynamics of coastal Georgia. This agility ensures small businesses can act quickly and seize opportunities as they arise.
Conventional Mortgages with Competitive Pricing
1) Holly White - mortgage lender serving St. Simons Island and Brunswick area
Southeastern Bank also provides access to extremely competitive mortgage products through its strategic partnership with Rocket Mortgage. Customers get the best of both worlds - personalized local service combined with the pricing and efficiency of a leading national mortgage provider. Southeastern has garnered many awards from Rocket for production. Last year, Southeastern ranked #4 overall among banks nationwide that partnered with Rocket Mortgage! Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, looking to refinance or purchasing a second home on the island, Holly White, Southeastern’s mortgage lender for the Glynn County area, can help find the best solution to meet your needs.
History Honored at SSI Location
The Bank’s island location is a unique tribute to the area’s rich history. The building itself was designed to resemble the former Sea Island Stables that once stood nearby, with its open, airy structure harkening back to a time when life on the island moved at a slower pace. Inside the lobby, visitors are greeted by the Bank’s original vault from 1888. Weighing a staggering seven tons, the vault was originally transported from Philadelphia by train to Darien, where the Bank was first established. The vault was later sold, but eventually returned to the Bank as a treasured artifact, now on display at the island office.
Balancing Tradition and Innovation
While Southeastern Bank takes pride in its deep roots, it’s equally focused on the future. The Bank offers online and mobile banking technology, giving customers easy access to their accounts 24/7. From online bill pay to mobile deposits, account alerts and more, Southeastern Bank ensures that customers can manage their finances with ease, whether they’re at home, on the go or on the island’s iconic beaches.
Yet, Southeastern Bank continues to prioritize exceptional customer service. For example, when you call Southeastern Bank, you’ll speak to a real person who can help, not an automated system. This blend of tradition and innovation enables Southeastern to meet the evolving demands of today’s banking while maintaining their defining personal touch.
Local Roots
It bears repeating: One of the key attributes of Southeastern’s island office is its team. Every employee at the branch not only works on the island but has connections in the community; this local connection allows the team to offer personalized service, knowing the relationships they build today will continue for generations to come.
In addition to its island location, Southeastern Bank also serves Glynn County with another branch in Brunswick, as well as nine other locations in southeast Georgia and northeast Florida.
Honoring the Past, Serving the Present and Looking to the Future
Southeastern’s island location represents more than just a place to conduct financial transactions. Rich in history and deeply connected to the community, the Bank honors its past while also serving the needs of today’s customers and looking to the future ahead.
The Bank’s lobby hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, with extended hours until 5:00 p.m. on Fridays. The drive-thru is open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and special appointments can be arranged by calling 912.357.2265. Learn more at SoutheasternBank.com.
