When patrons enter First Federal Bank, they are greeted by a familiar face with a warm smile behind the teller counter.
Known affectionately to many as “Granny,” Yvonne Maxfield received a 50-Year Banker Award from the Texas Banking Association.
The Texas Banking Association traditionally recognizes bankers annually across Texas. Nominated for the award last year, Maxfield met the requirements through her 50 years of devotion to community banking.
“First Federal has been my life,” Maxfield said, “and it’s been a good, rewarding life – I love all of the customers and I love all of the employees.”
The Amherst native started her banking career at Security State Bank and TriCounty, a financial services company. Then, in 1980, Maxfield assumed her notorious teller position at First Federal Bank and has remained there for the past 45 years.
Through staff and technological changes, Maxfield witnessed it all.
Recounting older practices ahead of technological advances, First Federal Bank President Dezi Vargas recalls his humble beginnings as Maxfield’s trainee between the years 1995 through 1998.
“She knew the fundamentals of being a teller long before the change in technologies,” Vargas said, “she didn’t have any mercy on us; she wanted us to be the best we could.”
Aside from a teller mentor, Maxfield served as a familial figure to Vargas.
“Granny gave my mom a lot of advice on life, family, leadership and faith,” Vargas said. “That’s why my family has always called Yvonne Granny, because she’s been like a second grandmother to a lot of us, especially here in the office.”
“Still, I go to her for advice,” Vargas added, “she’s always levelheaded and still provides a good, foundational viewpoint.”
This familial sentiment is felt by other members of the community, too.
The longevity of Maxfield’s career is fueled by compassion for others, and in return, garnered a sense of dependability and familiarity with customers.
“We all have gone into a store, and it seems that there’s another cashier or another customer service rep, because the turnover is so frequent,” Vargas said. “People appreciate somewhere where they go and see a dependable face in the lobby every time.”
Whether it’s remembering the 36 years working alongside her best friend, Brenda Vaught, or recounting the early emergence of bank technology, Maxfield remains eternally grateful for her time at the bank.
“I enjoy coming to work every day,” Maxfield said. “That’s been my reward: just continuing. Don’t ever quit.”
Emphasizing her love for the public, Maxfield said she plans to continue serving the community for the foreseeable future. “I want Granny to make it to 100 years old and celebrate 50 years at the bank – that’s the goal,” Vargas said. “She probably works harder than any other employee and she gets it done.”
Maxfield’s advice for those seeking longevity in their careers is simple: always do your best, and it will remain just as rewarding.
“The bank serves as a way for people and businesses to access the money they need to either support their families or grow, and to have a familiar face that knows who you are, that takes care of your business for you… it’s just unheard of,” Vargas said.