MONTGOMERY, Ala. – SmartBank today announced the retirement of Donna Cooper, Market President in Montgomery, effective December 19, 2025. Cooper is stepping down after a remarkable 45-year career in banking, which includes what she describes as the ‘BEST years’ of her career at SmartBank.
“Donna is without a doubt, an industry icon in the banking sector,” said Billy Carroll, SmartBank CEO. “Her dedication, market expertise, and deep commitment to our clients and community have been foundational to SmartBank’s success in Montgomery. We are incredibly grateful for the 45 years she has devoted to this profession, and particularly for the leadership she has provided to SmartBank.”
“It has been an honor to serve the people and businesses of Montgomery,” said Cooper. “The time I’ve spent at SmartBank has been the most rewarding period of my career. I leave with a heart full of gratitude for my colleagues, clients, and this entire community that has supported me for over four decades.”
Cooper’s tenure is marked by her exceptional service both within the bank and across the Montgomery community. Her philosophy has always centered on making a genuine impact, and her dedication is reflected in her active roles on numerous civic boards:
- Friendship Mission (Chairman)
- The Wellness Coalition (Vice Chairman)
- Baptist East Medical Center
- Trenholm State Community College
- Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce
- Montgomery Riverfront Development Foundation
- Montgomery Chamber Committee of 100
While retiring from her role, Cooper has agreed to continue contributing her valuable insights by serving on SmartBank’s local advisory board. She looks forward to spending more time with her family, including her husband, Ron Cooper; her two children, Brad Cooper and Ashton Cooper Tumblin; and her four precious grandchildren; and keeping up with her 93-year-old father, Hollis Gandy. She is also a devoted member of Frazer Free Methodist Church.
“Working alongside Donna has been an inspiration to our entire team,” said Stacy Faison, SmartBank Area President. “Her passion for banking and dedication to excellence have set the standard for everyone here. While we will miss her presence daily, we are thrilled that she will continue to lend her expertise to SmartBank.”
About SmartBank
Founded in 2007, SmartBank is a full-service commercial bank providing banking, investment, and mortgage financial services, with 42 branches spanning Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida. Recruiting the best people, delivering exceptional client service, strategic branching and a disciplined approach to lending have contributed to SmartBank’s success. For more information on SmartBank, visit
www.smartbank.com.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – SmartBank today announced the retirement of Donna Cooper, Market President in Montgomery, effective December 19, 2025. Cooper is stepping down after a remarkable 45-year career in banking, which includes what she describes as the ‘BEST years’ of her career at SmartBank.