Newsroom

News and Updates

As one of Tennessee’s top community banks, we actively participate in our communities. Listed here are the important updates from local F&M, a Lawrence Bank branches across Middle Tennessee. Follow our news stories as we share local news stories, F&M updates and announcements. You may even find some financial tips along the way.

June 8, 2026

Volunteer and F&M Complete Integration, Expanding Local Banking Strength Across Middle Tennessee

Clarksville, TENN. – June 8, 2026 – Volunteer and F&M, two long-standing community banks founded and headquartered in Middle Tennessee have completed the final phase of their integration under a single bank charter, Lawrence Bank. Effective June 8, 2026, the banks successfully unified their core banking systems and operations, giving customers seamless access to banking services at any Volunteer or F&M branch location.

This milestone follows their alignment under a single charter on January 1, 2026, after more than seven years of shared ownership. While Volunteer and F&M will continue operating under their trusted brands as divisions of Lawrence Bank, customers now benefit from the convenience of conducting transactions, accessing accounts, and receiving personalized service across a combined branch network. The integration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening community banking across Middle Tennessee. Together as one bank, the two brands reaffirm their long-term investment in the region while preserving the heritage, values and customer-first approach that have defined both banks for generations.

“This union reflects intentional, disciplined growth—growth that honors our rich history while positioning us for the future,” said Tony Gregory, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Lawrence Bank. “Operating under a single charter amplifies our ability to invest in our communities, expand our capabilities, and deliver a consistent, high-quality banking experience across Middle Tennessee. For our customers, it means greater convenience, broader access to services, and the strength of a larger organization—all while preserving the local leadership, relationships, and service culture that define both Volunteer and F&M.”

Together, Volunteer and F&M operate 28 branches across nine Middle Tennessee counties—Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Stewart, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson—reinforcing their role as a leading locally headquartered banking partner in a market increasingly served by out-of-region financial institutions. Beyond providing greater access and convenience for individuals, families, and businesses, the combined organization remains deeply invested in the communities it serves through local leadership, community involvement, volunteerism, and decisions made close to home. The result is a banking experience that extends beyond the walls of its branches—supporting the people, organizations, and communities that drive Middle Tennessee forward.

"This is an exciting step forward for both F&M and Volunteer,” said John Wallace, Jr., President of F&M, a Lawrence Bank. “By bringing our teams, technology, and resources together, we have created a stronger banking experience for our customers and better positioned ourselves for the future. Customers will benefit from enhanced digital capabilities, greater convenience, and the strength of a unified organization, while continuing to receive the trusted service and relationships that have always been at the heart of our banks.”

With a combined 169 years of service, Volunteer and F&M bring together the scale and resources of a larger banking institution, while maintaining our strong local presence in Middle Tennessee. The result is an enhanced, more connected banking experience that remains personal and helps our communities thrive.


About Lawrence Bank 
Headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, Lawrence Bank is a $3.2 billion community banking organization that serves as the single charter for Volunteer, a Lawrence Bank and F&M, a Lawrence Bank. Together, the two brands bring 169 combined years of community banking, serving individuals, families, and businesses across Middle Tennessee through relationship-driven banking and local decision-making. Through the Volunteer and F&M brands, customers across nine Middle Tennessee counties—Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery, Robertson, Rutherford, Stewart, Sumner, Williamson, and Wilson—have access to a combined network of 28 financial centers. Together, they offer a full suite of financial solutions for personal and business needs, while remaining committed to the communities they serve and call home. 
For more information about products and services, branch locations, and hours of operation, visit Volunteer.Bank or myfmbank.com.

January 1, 2026

Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank Align Under Lawrence Bank Charter, Preserving Local Brands

Nashville, TENN. – January 1, 2026 – Two long-standing Middle Tennessee community banks, united by shared ownership and a longstanding commitment to local service, have taken a meaningful step forward. Effective January 1, 2026, Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank have legally aligned under a single bank charter and holding company, Lawrence Bank. Both Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank will continue operating as divisions of Lawrence Bank, maintaining their established brands and local market presence.

This alignment brings together two institutions with deep community roots, complementary markets, and a shared belief that strong banking begins with local decision-making, trusted relationships, and personal service. By uniting under one charter, Lawrence Bank strengthens its ability to serve customers while reaffirming its long-term commitment to community banking across Middle Tennessee.

“For over seven years, Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank have been aligned by common ownership, shared values, and a clear purpose—to serve our communities with integrity, consistency, and care,” said Gaylon Lawrence, Jr., sole shareholder of Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank. “Uniting under the Lawrence Bank charter allows us to build on that foundation and positions us to remain a locally owned, community-focused banking partner for Middle Tennessee—today and for generations to come.”

The combined organization is led by Tony Gregory as chairman, president and chief executive officer of Lawrence Bank and Mark Seaton as chief financial officer of Lawrence Bank — roles they previously held for Volunteer Bank. DeWayne Olive, former chairman and chief executive officer of F&M Bank, serves as chief operating officer of Lawrence Bank. David McDaniel will serve as president for Volunteer Bank, while John Wallace, Jr. will continue as president of F&M Bank.

“This union reflects intentional, disciplined growth—growth that honors our rich history while positioning us for the future,” said Tony Gregory, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Lawrence Bank. “Operating under a single charter amplifies our ability to invest in our communities, expand capabilities, and deliver a consistent, high-quality banking experience across our markets. For our neighbors throughout Middle Tennessee, this means greater access to local decision-making, broader services, and the strength of a larger organization— while preserving the local leadership, relationships, and service culture that define both banks.”

With a combined presence across the Nashville and Clarksville markets, Lawrence Bank will rank among the top 10 banks in Middle Tennessee by deposit market share. Following a systems integration anticipated in mid-2026, the organization will serve customers across nine Middle Tennessee counties, offering expanded access to branches and services while continuing to operate under the Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank brands.

“This is an alliance driven by purpose, not scale alone,” said DeWayne Olive, chief operating officer of Lawrence Bank. “Our customers will continue working with the bankers they know and trust, supported by a stronger organization with the resources, stability, and shared vision to serve Middle Tennessee well into the future.”

About F&M Bank
Founded in 1906, F&M Bank is a $1.5 billion community bank headquartered in Clarksville, Tennessee. For more than 119 years, we have remained committed to one guiding principle – providing superior, personalized customer service. F&M Bank offers modern financial solutions with seventeen full-service offices across Middle Tennessee – including locations in Montgomery, Robertson, Dickson, Stewart, Sumner, and Wilson counties – F&M Bank proudly supports our customers and neighbors with approachable, experienced bankers who care about your success.

About Volunteer Bank
Volunteer Bank is a privately owned, Tennessee-based community bank with over $1.5 billion in assets. Founded in 1977, Volunteer Bank operates 17 full-service branches throughout Middle Tennessee in Davidson, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson and Wilson counties. Volunteer Bank offers a full suite of financial solutions designed to empower individuals and businesses at every stage of their financial journey. For more information on products, locations, and hours of operation, please visit Volunteer.Bank.
 

Media Contacts:
Angie DeGuira, EVP, Chief Marketing Officer
Volunteer Bank
Angie.DeGuira@Volunteer.Bank
 

November 10, 2025

Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank to Align Under Lawrence Bank Charter, Retaining Local Brands

Nashville, TENN. – November 10, 2025 – Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank announced today the consolidation of both banks under a single charter and holding company. The banks will operate under the Lawrence Bank charter, while retaining the Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank brands in their respective markets. Customers will continue to enjoy the personalized service, strong relationships, and local banking advantages they have always valued.

“Middle Tennessee’s dynamic and rapidly growing economic climate demands strong, innovative community banking,” said Gaylon Lawrence, owner of Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank. “With both banks already under shared ownership, aligning them under a single charter strengthens our collective foundation, drives operational efficiency, and positions us to better serve our local communities across the region. This strategic alignment preserves the unique identity of each institution while creating a unified platform for sustainable growth and long-term success.”

The combined organization will be led by Tony Gregory as chairman, president and chief executive officer of Lawrence Bank —a role he currently holds for Volunteer Bank. DeWayne Olive, currently chairman and chief executive officer of F&M Bank, will become chief operating officer of Lawrence Bank. David McDaniel, executive vice president and chief banking officer for Volunteer Bank, will step into the role of president for Volunteer Bank, while John Wallace, Jr. will continue as president of F&M Bank. The reorganization is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026.

“This reorganization unites two well-respected community banks with a combined 167 years of service, while preserving the brands and relationships our customers know and trust,” said Tony Gregory, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Volunteer Bank.  “Aligning under one charter expands our reach across Middle Tennessee while staying true to what matters most—local decision-making, exceptional service, and a deep commitment to the communities we proudly serve and call home.”

With combined deposits across the Nashville and Clarksville markets, Lawrence Bank will rank among the top 10 banks in Middle Tennessee by market share. Once banking systems are fully integrated in mid to late 2026, Volunteer Bank and F&M Bank branches will continue to operate under their respective brands, with customers gaining access to an expanded network of branches across Middle Tennessee.

“This reorganization is more than a change in structure—it’s a step forward in scale, strength, and service,” added DeWayne Olive, current chairman and chief executive officer of F&M Bank. “Together, under the combined Lawrence Bank charter, Volunteer Bank and F&M are positioned to deliver even greater value to Middle Tennessee, while maintaining the personal, meaningful, and enduring qualities of true community banking—anchored by local ownership and decision making, and a shared commitment to the values that define our region.”
 
About Volunteer Bank
Volunteer Bank is a privately owned, Tennessee-based community bank with over $1.5 billion in assets. Founded in 1977, Volunteer Bank operates 17 full-service branches throughout Middle Tennessee in Davidson, Robertson, Rutherford, Sumner, Williamson and Wilson counties. Volunteer Bank offers a full suite of financial solutions designed to empower individuals and businesses at every stage of their financial journey. For more information on products, locations, and hours of operation, please visit Volunteer.Bank.
 
About F&M Bank
Founded in 1906, F&M Bank is a $1.5 billion community bank headquartered in Clarksville, Tennessee. For more than 119 years, we have remained committed to one guiding principle – providing superior, personalized customer service. F&M Bank offers modern financial solutions with seventeen full-service offices across Middle Tennessee – including locations in Montgomery, Robertson, Dickson, Stewart, Sumner, and Wilson counties – F&M Bank proudly supports our customers and neighbors with approachable, experienced bankers who care about your success.

Media Contacts:

 Angie DeGuira, EVP, Chief Marketing Officer
Volunteer Bank
Angie.DeGuira@Volunteer.Bank
 
Lindsey Hammons, VP, Marketing, Engagement and Communications
Volunteer Bank
Lindsey.Hammons@Volunteer.Bank

October 29, 2024

F&M Bank Honored with ABA Foundation Community Commitment Award

Clarksville, TENN. – October 29, 2024 – F&M Bank was nationally recognized by the American Bankers Association Foundation for its Operation Honor with a 2024 ABA Foundation Community Commitment Award. The award was given to F&M Bank for its efforts in the supporting military families category and was presented during ABA’s Annual Convention on Oct. 29 in New York City.

F&M Bank spearheads Operation: Honor, alongside several local and national non-profit organizations. The endeavor distributes resources to combat the food insecurity that is affecting nearly one-third of military families. Additionally, opportunities are provided to active-duty military, veterans, and their family members through financial education and personalized banking services. Through this ambitious program, F&M is committed to identifying and meeting the ever-changing needs of those who strengthen our country and community.

Entries were submitted in seven categories: affordable housing, community and economic development, financial education, economic inclusion, protecting older Americans, supporting military families and volunteerism. Award winners were chosen by a field of nationally-recognized experts in each field.

The selection committee chose the winning banks based on the creativity and thoughtfulness of programs — traditional or innovative in nature and structure — that embody the ideals of corporate social responsibility and demonstrate success in making an impact.
“F&M Bank’s Operation Honor demonstrated the extraordinary impact that banks can make in the communities they serve,” said Lindsay Torrico, executive director, ABA Foundation. “We’re proud to recognize them as one of the 2024 Community Commitment Award winners and hope their efforts will inspire others throughout the industry.”

“We are honored to be recognized by the ABA Foundation with this award. F&M Bank is committed to serving and investing in our community not only financially, but civically as well and military families are an important facet of that mission.”, says CEO, DeWayne Olive.

To learn more about the ABA Foundation Community Commitment Awards, visit aba.com/awards.

May 3, 2023

F&M Bank, Tennessee Bankers Association make history with state’s first-ever banking program at Austin Peay

Clarksville, TENN. – May 3, 2023 – F&M Bank and the Tennessee Bankers Association have announced the “Banking on Govs” program, a new partnership with Austin Peay State University. The program is the first of its kind in Tennessee and will offer business students unique training, networking and mentorship opportunities within the banking industry.

“The ‘Banking on Govs’ program reflects our commitment to the student experience," said Dr. Michael Licari, Austin Peay president. "By partnering with our community, we provide Austin Peay students with practical learning opportunities, so that they can apply what they learn in class while gaining professional experiences.”

Qualified students from the College of Business will have the opportunity to attend the Tennessee Bankers Association Southeastern School of Banking with all expenses paid while connecting with banking professionals throughout their enrollment.

“It is our privilege to partner with the Austin Peay State University Foundation and the Tennessee Bankers Association to gift qualified APSU College of Business students with an experiential learning opportunity,” said Sammy Stuard, president of F&M Bank. “We are proud to be part of this inaugural program – the first in Tennessee state history. It is extremely gratifying to help students along their educational and professional roads to success.”

Selected students will participate in the program over two consecutive summers, taking a hands-on approach to learning the skills and insights necessary to succeed in the banking industry.

"Equipping aspiring banking professionals with the necessary blend of theoretical and practical skills is essential for a successful career in the industry,” said Ronnie Boling, director at TBA’s Southeastern School of Banking. “At The Southeastern School of Banking, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the banking sector and have the chance to apply that knowledge in real-world settings. As a result, graduates will have a competitive edge in starting their careers. We are excited to collaborate with F&M Bank and Austin Peay State University in delivering this program, and we can't wait to see the positive impact it will have on the future leaders of the banking industry."

Erin Morton, director of development for Austin Peay’s College of Business, said she also looks forward to seeing students grow through their participation in the program.

“It has been an honor and a privilege working with F&M Bank and the Tennessee Bankers Association,” she said. “We are excited to help bring this program to fruition, offering a unique learning opportunity for our students.”

Students interested in participating in the “Banking on Govs” program should contact Dr. Dong Nyonna, chair of the department of accounting, finance and economics, at nyonnad@apsu.edu.