To those entering the front doors of Regions Bank, at the corner of Church Street and Alabama Avenue and just across from Courthouse Annex, Sheryl Smedley is clearly visible seated at the far end of the large lobby. The overhead light strikes across her shining blonde hair, her always present smile gives added brightness to the spacious, attractive room. In front of her desk are two chairs, usually filled by those seeking her banking expertise. On her desk sits a colorful, live plant and over the credenza behind her hangs an often-commented on painting of the Edmund Pettus Bridge stretching across the Alabama River.

Her official title is Commercial Portfolio Manager, which includes “many things,” she says “such as customer relations and service for commercial account customers.”

Sheryl Smedley has been in the banking business for 19 years and with Regions for 15. She was made an officer of the bank in January by President Catesby ap C. Jones, who says “Sheryl is a prime example of the true professional. In her appearance, her actions, her attitude and demeanor are impeccable and perfect for the bank.

“She is a real asset for the bank and for the community.”

At present her professional path includes getting a degree in business administration through the University of Alabama External Degree Program. She is also a senior at the Alabama School of Banking in Mobile. And one Friday and Saturday of every month she is involved in Selma and Dallas County Leadership Organization.

Her volunteerism in civic, church and community activities and organizations are well known throughout the city. Smedley served four years on the Community Service Board of International Paper. She is on the board of Habitat for Humanity and a member of Dallas County Master Gardeners, a major enthusiasm for her.

She is also a volunteer at City Ceramics one evening weekly, is active with Selma-Dallas County Historical Preservation Society, and is Provisional Chairman for the Selma Charity League.

A member of Church Street United Methodist Church, she serves on the Church Council and in Family Ministries. “I constantly remind myself of Proverbs 11:25 that tells us who refreshes others also refreshes himself.”

In reference to all her activities she admits, with a charming smile, “I guess I am a people pleaser; I can’t say no. The main reason I stay so involved is that my family is 500 miles away.”

Born on the East Coast of Florida in Flagler County, she has been in Alabama for 16 years. She is married to John Smedley and they live in Jones, where her husband bought his home place. “I enjoy being there, being outside in the yard, working with the flowers, and sitting on our screened-in porch, where we have a view of the rolling hills of the Appalachians, a view I never get tired of seeing.”

However, Cheryl Smedley has little time to enjoy the view. She is always looking ahead to her next project. Having studied interior design at one time, she enjoys planning the settings for wedding receptions, parties and holiday and social events.

But, then, she admits to “being busy all my life. I got busy when my father told me he would only do for one of his daughters what he could do for all three. That was when I asked him for a car. Since then I have worked, saved and bought for myself.” Her community involvement is part of that legacy.