Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Image by Ryan McGill
Kay Sartain retired last week following a 48-year career in banking, including 22 years at Bank of Walker County. A reception was held in her honor on December 19, bringing together coworkers, community members, and friends to recognize her long service and impact.
Sartain noted that some of those in attendance were people she had worked with for nearly 40 years and said she was grateful that so many took time out of their day to thank her.
Reflecting on her career, Sartain said the biggest changes she witnessed were in the banking industry itself, but the most meaningful part of her work was the relationships she built.
“It was the friendships. The people who realized they had to take care of their finances, and they trusted me to help them with it,” she said.
She recalled helping customers who needed extra guidance, including one woman who regularly called the bank to check her balance and confirm that checks had cleared. Sartain said those moments of helping people manage their finances responsibly are what she remembers most.
Sartain joined the Bank of Walker County before it officially opened, working during the planning stage as the bank prepared to open its doors in 2004. She left her position at Bank of Parrish to help establish the new bank and remained with it throughout its growth.
Sartain became Chief Operations Officer, a role she said she never expected to hold. She emphasized the importance of preparation and experience, particularly for women working in the banking industry.
A graduate of Parrish High School, Sartain has spent most of her life in the Parrish community. She said working in Walker County has been meaningful to her, especially as she has seen the county’s economic growth and increased community support in recent years.
In retirement, Sartain said she looks forward to camping, sewing, and spending time with her five grandchildren, while remaining open to whatever comes next.
She also expressed gratitude for the opportunity to live out her faith through her work.
“I feel like God put me at the Bank of Walker County for a purpose,” Sartain said. “And I hope that I’ve done what He wanted me to do.”
The Walker Leader congratulates Kay on a remarkable 48-year career and wishes her all the best in her retirement! WL
