Growing up in the close-knit community of Buford, Georgia, my roots run deep. I was born in Buford General Hospital, welcomed into the world by Dr. Harry Hutchins and Dr. Cecil Miller to parents Jerry & Von Hughes. Living in the Hall County section of Buford, I attended Hall County Schools, which gave me friends and connections across both Buford and Hall County. Yet, it was my father’s influence that truly tied me to Buford’s heartbeat.
My dad was a banker at Buford Commercial Bank, right in the heart of downtown Buford. As a child, I would accompany him to work, fascinated by his world and dreaming of following in his footsteps. My career in banking began early—at 14, I was working in the bank’s mailroom, filing checks during summers and Christmas breaks. Those early experiences alongside my dad cemented my path.
After graduating, I immersed myself into banking, taking every course and class that could further my skills. But in 1984, just as he was set to take on the role of President at the newly founded Peoples Bank & Trust, a bank created by local business leaders—my father passed away unexpectedly, just two months before the doors opened. He was a few days from being 47. My mom, Brother, Don & Sister, Jill and I were all in shock.
Heartbroken but determined, I dedicated myself to my career, working hard to honor his legacy. Today, I’m proud to serve as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, sitting in the very office that was meant to be his. I have also been on the Bank’s Board for about 14 years which is an honor.
Buford, in the early days, was a haven for adventure. With endless stretches of farmland, it was safe and free, a place where, at 10, I could ride my motorcycle with my brother and friends within a five-mile radius of our home, exploring all the backroads. Growing up in rural Buford, under my parent’s example and surrounded by a community that felt like family, shaped who I am today and continues to ground me in a legacy that’s as much about family as it is about Buford itself.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am currently married to Mike Wells. I have 2 daughters from a previous marriage, Whitney Marshall Pass, married Michael, children -Rowan & Aemon, Jerica Marshall Rioux, married Gerard, Children – Evelyn & Xavier. I also have 3 step children, Heath, Heather & Veronica and nine step grandchildren. I’m blessed with this extended family.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I have enjoyed serving the people of Buford and offering financial guidance. The customers and co-workers is the best part of working at the bank. We are all like an extended family. I have reached a pinnacle of my career and look forward to retirement at some point to try different things.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
My favorite is Crossroads in Flowery Branch, Aqua Terra, Bare Bones, Off the rails, Carolines in Flowery Branch – as you can tell, I love eating out and not cooking!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived in the area my entire life – 67 years and been in banking full time for 50 years
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
I’ve know Phillip Beard since I was a child but have gotten to know him better since being on the bank’s board with him. I find his stories about the cities accomplishments, politics and hunting fascinating.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I’ve been fortunate to be able to travel with the bank’s Travel Club with my mom and I have seen much of the world. I hope to establish my own Travel Club when I retire.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Movie -Titanic TV show – Big Bang Theory
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Worship, find a way to love every person & help those that need it. If you do this – you will be the one blessed.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Comfortable Retirement
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
My husband’s music – Wolfgressive
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Buford Grill – I have spent many fun times there over the years.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Taylor Swift – I really respect her and what she has accomplished. Now, that I have written a few songs, I love listening to the lyrics of her original music. She seems like a hometown kind of girl so I think she might like Buford Grill!
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
The North Gwinnett Coop is a unique organization that truly helps those in need in our community in so many ways. Not all communities have this and needs are not met. I am on the Board of this wonderful organization and see the benefits first hand.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Retired, Running a Travel Club, maybe try my hand at some sort of art.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I’ve been writing music lyrics for my husband’s music. We have been doing this for a couple of years now and have some really good songs each generating about 50K streams monthly.
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Iceland
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
July – Christmas
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
My family
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My husband, Mike. He is my biggest fan.
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Cinnamon & Vanilla
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Comfortable, Safe & Loving
