Mr. John “Wes” Wesley Strange passed away on May 25, 2025.  Strange was the Co-Founder of Branson Bank.

Wes Strange started his banking career after graduating from the University of Missouri in January of 1960.  His work experience was always in the finance industry, beginning with the Farm Credit Association for the first four years and then on to other various banks over the course of his 55+ years. Titles have ranged from Field Representative to Teller, Assistant Vice President, Vice President, President, CEO, and Board Chairman.

Wes Strange and his co-founder, Bill Jones, met in Arkansas while working at a bank in Flippin. They shared the same vision in creating a community bank that truly cared for its customers, employees, and community. This vision began forming in 1998 and finally came to fruition when Branson Bank opened its doors March 22, 2000.

“Even though Wes was older than me, it was apparent that we approached the business with a similar philosophy,” said Bill Jones, CEO, Branson Bank. “We always tried to focus on customers and employees first. He was full of wisdom and insight, and it was my pleasure to work with him side by side as we eventually created the business plan for what would later be known as Branson Bank. Wes was instrumental in starting the company and it simply would not have happened without him.” 

Wes Strange served as CEO of Branson Bank during the first few years of operation, retiring in 2007 from his day-to-day activities at the bank. He continued serving as Director and Chairman of the Holding Company, Branson BancShares, Inc until 2024. In 2015, Strange was recognized as part of the Missouri Bankers Association’s elite 50 Year Club, having served over 50 years in the banking industry.

In 2022, Branson Bank recognized the legacy of Wes Strange with a naming of the bank’s Highway 248 conference room in his honor. Found at the bank’s original location on Highway 248, you will find his photo and story on display in his memory.

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