Leadership Changes at First Financial Bank's Abilene Region Mark New Era of Growth and Community Service.
First Financial Bank, a subsidiary of First Financial Bankshares, Inc., has recently announced significant leadership transitions within its Abilene Region. Effective December 31, 2026, Marelyn Shedd, who has been a cornerstone of the bank for 35 years, will retire, paving the way for a new generation of leaders.
Marelyn Shedd's career with First Financial Bank has been marked by extraordinary achievements. She began her journey as a Senior Vice President in Commercial Lending and ascended through the ranks to become the President of the Abilene Region in 2012. Most notably, her leadership culminated in her appointment as Regional CEO in 2025, making her the first female to hold such a position in the bank's history. Her contributions to the economic and civic landscape of Abilene have been substantial, earning her the recognition of numerous professional awards, including her recent induction into the Texas Bankers Hall of Fame.
In expressing gratitude towards Marelyn's extensive contributions, David Bailey, President and CEO of First Financial Bankshares, said, "Marelyn has been a trusted leader, banker, and dedicated champion for the Abilene community. Her commitment and influence can be seen not only in her success at First Financial Bank, but also in the countless organizations she has supported." The transition is designed to ensure stability for customers and employees alike, with Marelyn collaborating closely with the leadership team during this period.
Transitioning into leadership, Marshall Morris has been named the new Chairman, President, and CEO of First Financial Bank's Abilene Region, effective September 1, 2026. Morris, who joined the bank 15 years ago as a Credit Analyst, has moved up the ranks through various regional leadership positions, demonstrating his dedication and strategic foresight. As he steps into his new role, Morris will continue to focus on the region's operational excellence and customer service while spearheading strategic growth initiatives.
The changes do not stop here. Evan Harris has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager, focusing on the critical areas of Construction and Development. Having spent 20 years at the bank and possessing extensive knowledge of the regional real estate landscape, Evan is poised to build upon the bank's existing successes in this sector.
Dayton Borger will also step up as Executive Vice President, Senior Relationship Manager - Commercial. He will continue to serve the bank's commercial clients while leading efforts to expand business development opportunities. His experience within various roles at the bank positions him uniquely to drive growth in this area.
Additionally, Tracy Howle will join First Financial Bank's Abilene Region as Executive Vice President, Relationship Manager. She brings with her a wealth of experience gained over three decades in banking, including high-level positions that emphasize relationship management and commercial lending.
These leadership transitions signify not just a change at the top, but a renewal of commitment to community service and growth in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. With the new leadership at the helm, First Financial Bank is on a promising trajectory, ready to adapt to challenges while remaining a cornerstone in the Abilene community. As these seasoned professionals take charge, the bank's mission of ensuring top-tier services and community engagement will undoubtedly continue to thrive.
First Financial Bank is a financial entity that operates multiple regions across Texas, with a strong focus on community involvement and customer satisfaction. With a leadership team in place that embodies a blend of experience and dedication, the bank is set to enhance its impact in the Abilene area and beyond, ensuring stability and progression for its clients and the community as a whole.
Marelyn Shedd's career with First Financial Bank has been marked by extraordinary achievements. She began her journey as a Senior Vice President in Commercial Lending and ascended through the ranks to become the President of the Abilene Region in 2012. Most notably, her leadership culminated in her appointment as Regional CEO in 2025, making her the first female to hold such a position in the bank's history. Her contributions to the economic and civic landscape of Abilene have been substantial, earning her the recognition of numerous professional awards, including her recent induction into the Texas Bankers Hall of Fame.
In expressing gratitude towards Marelyn's extensive contributions, David Bailey, President and CEO of First Financial Bankshares, said, "Marelyn has been a trusted leader, banker, and dedicated champion for the Abilene community. Her commitment and influence can be seen not only in her success at First Financial Bank, but also in the countless organizations she has supported." The transition is designed to ensure stability for customers and employees alike, with Marelyn collaborating closely with the leadership team during this period.
Transitioning into leadership, Marshall Morris has been named the new Chairman, President, and CEO of First Financial Bank's Abilene Region, effective September 1, 2026. Morris, who joined the bank 15 years ago as a Credit Analyst, has moved up the ranks through various regional leadership positions, demonstrating his dedication and strategic foresight. As he steps into his new role, Morris will continue to focus on the region's operational excellence and customer service while spearheading strategic growth initiatives.
The changes do not stop here. Evan Harris has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Senior Relationship Manager, focusing on the critical areas of Construction and Development. Having spent 20 years at the bank and possessing extensive knowledge of the regional real estate landscape, Evan is poised to build upon the bank's existing successes in this sector.
Dayton Borger will also step up as Executive Vice President, Senior Relationship Manager - Commercial. He will continue to serve the bank's commercial clients while leading efforts to expand business development opportunities. His experience within various roles at the bank positions him uniquely to drive growth in this area.
Additionally, Tracy Howle will join First Financial Bank's Abilene Region as Executive Vice President, Relationship Manager. She brings with her a wealth of experience gained over three decades in banking, including high-level positions that emphasize relationship management and commercial lending.
These leadership transitions signify not just a change at the top, but a renewal of commitment to community service and growth in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. With the new leadership at the helm, First Financial Bank is on a promising trajectory, ready to adapt to challenges while remaining a cornerstone in the Abilene community. As these seasoned professionals take charge, the bank's mission of ensuring top-tier services and community engagement will undoubtedly continue to thrive.
First Financial Bank is a financial entity that operates multiple regions across Texas, with a strong focus on community involvement and customer satisfaction. With a leadership team in place that embodies a blend of experience and dedication, the bank is set to enhance its impact in the Abilene area and beyond, ensuring stability and progression for its clients and the community as a whole.
Topics Financial Services & Investing）
【About Using Articles】
You can freely use the title and article content by linking to the page where the article is posted.
※ Images cannot be used.
【About Links】
Links are free to use.