(Richmond Hill, GEORGIA)— Great Oaks Bank is pleased to announce that Carl R. Varnedoe and Kelly Johnson have been elected to its Board of Directors. Their combined expertise in law, real estate, leadership, and community engagement will further strengthen the bank’s strategic direction and commitment to service across the region.
A Hinesville, GA native, Carl R. Varnedoe is the founder of Carl R. Varnedoe, LLC, a Savannah-based personal injury law firm that represents clients throughout Georgia. He is a 1999 graduate of the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business and earned his Juris Doctor from Mercer University School of Law in 2003.
Before establishing his own firm, Carl practiced in Atlanta, Macon, and Hinesville based firms. His recognitions include multiple Super Lawyer honors (2018–2023) and selection to the National Trial Lawyers’ Top 100 Trial Lawyers and Top 40 Under 40. He and his wife, Christina, reside on Skidaway Island with their two daughters, and are members of Wesley Monumental United Methodist Church, Savannah, and The Landings Golf & Athletic Club, Skidway. He is an active member of numerous boards including the St. Catherine’s Island Foundation, Inc., the Midway Church and Society, and The Estate of John Lambert, Inc. He is an avid upland bird hunter and rabid UGA football fan. His legal experience, ethical standards, leadership, and deep roots in coastal Georgia make him a valuable addition to the board.
Kelly Brock Johnson, Broker and Managing Partner of RE/MAX Accent, is a respected leader in the real estate industry with over three decades of experience in the coastal Georgia market. A Bainbridge, GA native and Florida State University alumna, Kelly has held her Georgia real estate license since 1992 and her broker license since 2010. Her extensive accolades include the RE/MAX Hall of Fame, RE/MAX Lifetime Achievement Award (2023), and consistent recognition for professional achievement and leadership by Savannah Area Realtors.
In addition to her professional achievements, Kelly is deeply invested in community service. She serves on the Executive Board of Savannah Area Realtors, is a director for Coastal Empire Habitat for Humanity, and has held leadership roles in numerous local organizations. Johnson and her husband, Eric Johnson, have been residents of Richmond Hill for over 30 years. They are active members of Church of the Hill and support numerous civic and charitable organizations. Her extensive real estate market knowledge, leadership experience, community visibility, and professional integrity will be beneficial to Great Oaks Bank as it continues to pursue its mission and vision.
“We are honored to welcome Carl and Kelly to our board,” said Mike Odom, Chairman of Great Oaks Bank. “Their proven leadership, deep community roots, and professional accomplishments align with our values and vision. We look forward to the impact they will have as we continue to grow in coastal and middle Georgia, enhance value for our shareholders, and serve our customers and communities with excellence.”
About Great Oaks Bank
Headquartered in Richmond Hill, GA, Great Oaks Bank is a full-service community bank committed to providing exceptional service and memorable customer experiences. Our Mission is to be the preferred partner in helping families, businesses, and our communities achieve financial success. To learn more, call or visit one of our convenient offices in Savannah, Richmond Hill, Pooler, Eastman, Cochran, or Rhine, visit GreatOaks.Bank, or find us on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube or Instagram.
