Wilson Bank & Trust (WBT) Is Growing Right Here In Cookeville, TN.

Following a single-branch acquisition from F&M Bank, customers can now expect the same great WBT experience they’ve had for years, at an additional location, 900 North Washington Avenue.

Regarding the expansion, Wilson Bank & Trust CEO John McDearman stated, “We are thrilled to officially open our second location in Cookeville and welcome new customers and team members into the Wilson Bank & Trust community. This expansion reflects our long-term commitment to Putnam County and our mission to deliver personalized,banking solutions to the people and businesses we serve.”

We sat down with Nicole McMasters and Philip Clemmons of WBT to discuss what separates the bank from its competitors, the new acquisition, and how giving back is a top priority for Wilson Bank & Trust.

Loan Officer McMasters said, “At Wilson Bank & Trust, we take pride in our true community banking approach — making local decisions based on the needs of individuals, not just the bottom line. We’re deeply rooted in the areas we serve, giving back through both financial support and hands-on involvement as advocates and leaders within local organizations.”

McMasters went on to explain, “Our customers benefit from specialized products and services built through firsthand conversations and relationships — whether it’s exclusive accounts for military members and first responders or financial literacy tools designed for all ages. While we’re community-centered at heart, we also offer the competitive rates and high-tech tools you’d expect from a larger institution, like a robust mobile banking app and advanced online services that meet the needs of small businesses, commercial customers, and everyday consumers alike.”

Meet Your WBT Tech Office Team

On what the added location will mean for Cookeville and Putnam County she elaborated, “With this expansion, Wilson Bank & Trust now operates 32 offices across 10 Tennessee counties and holds more than $5.4 billion in assets. Our new North Washington Avenue location complements our existing Cookeville office on South Jefferson Avenue, making banking even more convenient and accessible for customers across the region.” McMasters added, “As part of the acquisition agreement, WBT assumed approximately $26 million in deposit accounts, retained nearly $15 million in loans, and absorbed the existing staff to ensure a smooth, familiar experience for customers.”

Customers can expect to see the same familiar faces when banking at the North Washington office: Zach Crowson, Office Manager; Whitney Koon, Head Customer Service Representative; and Customer Service Representatives Jordyn Arroyo and Brittany Pepin. McMasters will be moving to this location from their established South Jefferson Avenue office, to serve as Loan Officer. Philip Clemmons will continue to lead the bank’s success strategy, serving as Putnam County Market Leader. This experienced team, with its strong community ties and commitment to service, is ready to help customers navigate their financial journeys with confidence. The new location offers a full range of consumer and business banking services, lending options, digital banking support, and personalized financial guidance, all backed by the trusted network of local decision-makers and community involvement.

Wilson Bank & Trust Putnam County Market Leader, Clemmons sees the additional location as a continuation of the bank’s prioritization of community involvement and giving back.

On this, he stated, “Opening a second location in Cookeville is another step in Wilson Bank & Trust’s commitment to Putnam County. We’re proud to support partners like the Putnam County School System, Tennessee Tech, Friends of Putnam County Animals, and others making an impact here. This additional office allows us to deepen those relationships and continue giving back in ways that truly matter to our community.”

Wilson Bank & Trust has long been a leading name in banking and lending for the Upper Cumberland. The expertise and service you’ve come to love is now accessible on Washington Avenue – officially open and ready to serve you!

Wilson Bank & Trust is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

– by Chelsea Dartez, photos by Ben Weaver