Karen R. Walker recently joined the mortgage department at Southern Heritage Bank as a mortgage loan processor. She will be assisting Shelli Cody, senior loan processor.

“Karen returns to banking with a wealth of mortgage, realty and customer service experience. We welcome Karen and the experience she brings. I am proud that we continue to attract people who share our ‘Expect A Difference’ attitude to join our team,” said Lee Stewart, president and CEO. “Joy Akins (vice president and mortgage originator) has always led our very successful mortgage efforts, and has established the highest level of professionalism. Karen Walker is a great fit for the team Joy has assembled.”

“The extraordinary growth we have experienced and the volume of business and customers we serve have allowed us to become the fastest growing mortgage department in our area. Karen’s background will be a valuable asset to our mortgage team, and allows us to continue delivering the exceptional customer service we are known for. We are very proud of the high caliber of professionals in our department. The depth of their knowledge and expertise is far greater than that of any other mortgage lender in the area, and allows us to serve our customers with all their mortgage needs,” Akins said.

Walker worked at First Citizens Bank for 15 years in several areas of the bank, most recently in mortgage lending. Her previous work experience includes being a partner and co-owner of a local real estate company. A graduate of Cleveland High School, Walker also attended Cleveland State Community College. Her husband, Tommy, is employed by Beaulieu Group of America. They have three daughters, Morgan, Eryn and Madelyn, and attend First Baptist Church.