Karen Harrington Retires After 42 Years of Dedicated Service

January 14, 2026 | BankingFocus-Banking Focus | BankingFocus-Employee Spotlights

January 14, 2026 — Today we celebrate a remarkable milestone and a legacy of leadership as Karen Harrington officially retires from Security Bank after 42 years of unwavering service to our customers, colleagues, and community. 

Karen began her career on August 22, 1983, entering the banking industry as a teller. Over the decades, she advanced through multiple roles and ultimately served as Vice President, where she managed daily deposit operations for all five Security Bank locations, a testament to her deep industry knowledge and exceptional problem-solving skills. 

A true cornerstone of our bank family, Karen has not only been respected for her professional expertise, but also for her warmth, mentorship, and commitment to building lasting relationships. She has earned admiration from coworkers and customers alike for her integrity, dedication, and the countless friendships she’s formed along the way. 

Karen’s impact extends far beyond banking. She has been deeply engaged in the Laurel community, serving twelve years on the Laurel City Council, twelve years as a Laurel EMT, and volunteering with the Chamber Community Club, Q125 Finance Committee, and the Community Center fundraising/design efforts.

Over her tenure, Karen helped guide the bank through major milestones — from early core system implementations in the 1980s to strategic mergers and the evolution of digital banking services. Her leadership helped shape how Security Bank delivers service in an ever-changing financial landscape.

Today’s retirement celebration reflects the deep appreciation we hold for Karen’s decades of service. Family, friends, coworkers, and community members gathered at an open house in her honor to share memories, express gratitude, and toast to her next chapter.

Karen and her late husband, Larry, are parents to Tina and Patrick and grandparents to three grandchildren. In retirement, she looks forward to spending more time with family, exploring new travel adventures, and enjoying her lifelong hobbies — including philately and attending family events.

Thank you, Karen, for your decades of service, leadership, and friendship. We wish you all the best in your well-deserved retirement!