James Smith, FMS Bank President and CEO, Passed Away at 53
Former CEO and current Board Chair, John Sneed will act as Interim CEO.
GREELEY AND FORT MORGAN, Colo. (April. 30, 2024) – FMS Bank is saddened to announce the death of its beloved President and Chief Executive Officer, James Smith, who passed following health complications on Sunday, April 28, 2024.
James Smith joined FMS Bank as President and COO in early 2019 and was subsequently promoted to CEO in 2021. Smith had over 25 years of banking experience, including 10 years of C-level/ director experience at community banks. During his tenure at FMS Bank, Smith ushered the bank through several transitions while laying the foundation for digital transformation, service enhancement, and continued growth. As a result, FMS Bank has grown from $235 million in assets at the beginning of Smith’s tenure to more than $300 million in assets today.
In addition to his position as Rotary Club Treasurer, Smith championed many causes in Greeley and Fort Morgan Communities, most notably Habitat for Humanity of Weld County, Greeley Chamber of Commerce, Weld County Food Bank, and Weld Community Foundation.
“Our hearts and prayers go out to the Smith family.“, said John Sneed, Board Chair at FMS Bank. “James was such a bright spot in our organization and it is difficult to know he is no longer with us.”
Following Smith’s untimely passing, John Sneed was named interim CEO of FMS Bank. Fred Ruff, current President of the Fort Morgan branch, was named interim President.
Private funeral services will take place in James’ home state of Missouri. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, May 9, 2024, from 5 pm – 7 pm at FMS Bank in Greeley, CO.
About FMS Bank
FMS Bank is a community bank in every sense of the term: homegrown, locally owned and operated, and committed to its fellow neighbors. For over 40 years it has served the banking needs of businesses and individuals in northeastern Colorado with locations in Fort Morgan and Greeley. No matter your financial situation today, FMS Bank works to tailor their banking solutions to help you meet your goals for tomorrow. After all, that’s what neighbors are for. To learn more, visit www.fmsbank.com. Join the community on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.