Gallagher retires from Primis Bank after 45 years of service

After 45 years of dedicated service to customers and communities across Virginia, Patricia Gallagher, senior vice president at Primis Bank, retired at the end of March.

Primis said Gallagher’s remarkable career spanned decades of leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to clients and civic engagement.

Beginning her journey at Southside Bank, Gallagher transitioned through Eastern Virginia Bankshares, SonaBank, and ultimately Primis Bank, serving in roles that touched nearly every facet of banking—from customer and corporate services to marketing, finance, strategic planning, and business development.

According to Primis, her influence has shaped the bank’s growth and strengthened its ties to the communities it serves.

“While retirement from my bank is with mixed emotions, a new season emerges,” Gallagher said. “I have been blessed beyond measure with a rewarding career that provided me with a sense of purpose each and every day I had the opportunity to serve families across this service region and special community.”

F.L. “Skipper” Garrett, longtime board member, reflected on her impact: “Patricia’s unwavering dedication to the bank and our community will be missed by her bank family, the board, and the community. We wish her all the best and happiness in her new chapter.”

Primis Bank CEO Dennis Zember and President Rick Fulk added: “Patricia has represented the bank and served our clients with care, compassion, and the utmost professionalism. She always had her eye on what the community needed from its community bank.”

Gallagher’s legacy extends beyond banking. A passionate advocate for education, health, and the arts, she has served on numerous boards and organizations, including the Virginia Bankers Association Government Relations Committee, University of Richmond Dean’s Advisory Council, VCU Health, local chambers of commerce, Rotary, and more.

Primis said its branch teams across the Northern Neck and Richmond regions are committed to providing the same level of care, attention, and exceptional service that Patricia’s customers have come to know and love.