Rocklyn E. "Rock" Hunt, was named two years ago to head the company’s Mountain Banking Group, which includes Banks, Habersham, Hall, Jackson, Rabun and White counties.

His resignation is effective Dec. 31.

"It’s a very positive thing," Hunt said. "It’s a very amicable separation. I’ve completed my duties and responsibilities here in Gainesville and it’s now time for me to return to Forsyth County."

Hunt appointment in May 2005 followed the sudden departure of Regions top Gainesville executives and key managers who left to join United Community Bank.

His departure from Regions will end a 31-year career with the company. He joined what was then First National Bank of Gainesville in 1976, after graduating with honors from the University of Georgia.

He began in the collections division and worked on the commercial loan department. In June 1989, First National Bancorp acquired Peoples Bank of Forsyth County and Hunt was named executive vice-president and would eventually become president of the bank, which became Regions Bank when the two companies merged in 1996.

"Regions is a great company and the new Regions is going to be even better," he said. "I leave intact a company that is approaching 120 years of service to the community."

Dick Valentine, who was among the group who joined United Community Bank in 2005, had kind words for his former colleague.

"Rock Hunt is a good friend of mine and has done a great job of serving his customers in Gainesville and Hall County," said Valentine. "He will be sorely missed and I hate to see him go."

Hunt, who was active in civic pursuits in Forsyth County, continues to make his home there. While he was vague about his exact plans, he indicated he would not be making a major career change.

"I plan to resume some kind of opportunity related to banking, because that’s what I know," he said.