Posted On: October 14, 2025 by Austin Bank in: Star of the Month
Our Star for October has been a member of the Austin Bank team since 2009. For the last sixteen years, he has brought his unique charisma and genuine enthusiasm into the bank, brightening the days of those he works with along with the customers he helps. We are honored to introduce Ramon Merkley, Loan Assistant in our Longview Pine Tree office, as our October Star of the Month.
Ramon began his banking career as a teller in the bank’s Kilgore location. He moved to his current position in 2012, and was promoted to Banking Officer in 2017. In addition to meeting loan needs at the Longview Pine Tree location, Ramon also helps manage the bank’s online consumer loan applications. However, he doesn’t limit himself to assisting on the lending side only, Ramon is always willing to help whenever a need arises. He goes above and beyond his own job duties to assist wherever he can in the office. During busy times, if tellers are shorthanded or customers are waiting to see a customer service representative, Ramon will step in without hesitation to assist with greeting customers in the drive thru or working to finding a solution for those who may be waiting. Trace Buckner, Escrow Administrative Assistant, recounts a time when he worked in the Pine Tree office sharing, “Ramon was always helping the retail side as an extra for greeting customers, standing in as an extra body for security, and even helping the location open when it was short staffed.” Trace goes on to add, “I have never seen Ramon in a bad mood, or ever be short with anyone. He is always keeping moral high during stressful times.” Ramon has also been known to help change a flat tire or two, for customer and employees alike.
Ramon and his wife, Danielle, live in Longview with their two young children – Noelle and Graham. The family attends St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Outside of the bank, Ramon enjoys watching college football and soccer; decorating for the fall and Halloween seasons; and Peeps candy, especially those that are Dr. Pepper flavored. Ramon holds a degree in economics from Texas A&M University, and gives back to new employees of the bank by serving as a mentor in the Mentorship program.
“Ramon is an exceptional loan assistant. He always goes above and beyond to help others. He is reliable, professional, and quick to step in with support – whether assisting customers or coworkers. His positive attitude and willingness to serve make him a true asset to the Austin Bank team.”
Dan Droege, Executive Vice President/Regional President, Longview Oak Forest
“Ramon is someone you can count on. He is always willing to step in and help his branch and other branches without hesitation. He has led the bank’s online loan origination efforts, and is a real asset to the North region. I congratulate Ramon on this recognition, it is well deserved.”
Natalie Lynch, Senior Executive Vice President/Chief Revenue Officer, Longview Oak Forest
“Ramon is an integral part of the Pine Tree branch. While very quiet and humble in nature, his daily sense of humor makes the branch so enjoyable to be a part of. I am glad to have the opportunity to work with him.”
Chandalyn Jenkins, Retail Office Manager, Longview Pine Tree
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