Stephanie Deacon Ponton is retiring with more than 43 years in banking, 36 of which were with Bank of Botetourt. Throughout her career at the bank, she worked from offices in Buchanan, Eagle Rock, Troutville and, most recently, Daleville. She worked in various capacities in operations, lending, customer service, as a teller, and most recently as an officer of the fank as a branch manager.
Prior to joining Bank of Botetourt, Ponton was with Central Fidelity for seven years in operations and lending. She joined Bank of Botetourt in 1984 and was present at the Buchanan office during the Flood of 1985. She 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 who have been with the bank for more than 34 years.
President and CEO G. Lyn Hayth III said, “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. It is safe to say she has witnessed and played a role in the evolution of banking. We wish her well and all the best in her future.”
Ponton 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. She 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.
