For Hugh Allen Quimby, a lifetime of service to his community has never been about recognition, but about quietly doing the work that matters.
Born and raised in Warren, Quimby graduated from Warren High School in 1964 and went on to attend the University of Arkansas at Monticello, where he majored in business. While working at Kroger during his college years, a chance encounter would set the course for his decades-long career.
The then-president of First National Bank, Guy Humphries, approached Quimby with an opportunity to join
the bank. On March 9, 1970, Quimby began his career as a teller. From there, he steadily worked his way through the ranks, serving as an officer trainee and later holding roles in operations, personnel, trust, lending and branch management. Today, he serves as executive vice president.
Quimby briefly left Warren in 1974 to work at Citizen’s Bank in Jacksonville, but the pull of his hometown brought him back in 1976. He furthered his banking education by graduating from the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University in 1977. Over the years, he has also shared his knowledge by teaching banking courses, including Principles of Banking, to employees across the region.
The institution where Quimby built his career has evolved over time — from First National Bank to First State Bank in 1978 and now Commercial Bank as of 2024 — but his commitment has remained constant.
That commitment, he says, was shaped early in life by his father.
“My dad grew up during the Depression and fought in World War II,” Quimby said. “He instilled in me the desire
to live a life of service.”
His father, a combat engineer, endured harrowing experiences during the war, including being captured behind enemy lines before eventually being liberated. In 1999, Quimby was honored to receive a posthumous French. Liberation Medal on his father’s behalf for his role in the Normandy invasion.
That legacy of perseverance and service has guided Quimby throughout his life.
A man deeply rooted in his faith, Quimby said striving to live as a Christian example has been one of his guiding principles. His dedication is evident not only in his professional
life but also in his extensive community involvement.
He serves as a deacon at Immanuel Baptist Church and as treasurer of the Southeast Arkansas Baptist Network. His commitment to the community extends through his work on numerous boards, including the Bradley County Historical Museum, the Bradley County Economic Development Commission, the Warren Housing Authority, the Ouachita River Commission and the YMCA.
Despite a long list of accomplishments, Quimby said his proudest professional achievement is simple: serving his
community.
Over the course of more than five decades in banking, Quimby has witnessed significant changes in the industry.
“When I started, everything was done by hand on a posting machine,” he said. “Now everything is done electronically
on a computer.”
To those considering a career in banking — or any field — his advice is straight-
forward: “Be willing to do whatever the job or task you are assigned, no matter what it is.”
Now semi-retired and working three days a week, Quimby spends much of his time continuing his service through bookkeeping for his church and the Southeast Arkansas Baptist Network. He also enjoys watching his son and grandson race BMX bicycles.
Though known for his steady leadership, Quimby is quick to point out a lighter side.
“I’m a jokester,” he said with a smile — a fact those who know him well would not dispute.
When asked to reflect on his greatest accomplishment, Quimby didn’t mention his career or community accolades.
“Seeing my son accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and become a worship pastor,” he said.
For Quimby, family and faith remain at the center of everything.
His deep connection to Bradley County is rooted in generations past. His family’s history in the area dates back to the 1850s, when the Quimby and Ederington families first settled there.
“My roots run deep,” he said. “It is a great place to raise a family.”
As he reflects on his life and career, Quimby hopes his efforts have made a difference. He also encourages others
to step forward and invest in their community.
“We need more people to be active,” he said.
Through decades of dedication, quiet leadership and unwavering faith, Hugh Allen Quimby has done just that —
leaving a lasting impact on Warren and Bradley County that will be felt for generations to come.
