Home BancShares, Inc. (NYSE: HOMB) and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Centennial Bank, announced the passing of Tracy French on August 2, 2026. French was a longtime director of both entities, the former Chairman of Centennial Bank, and a senior executive whose service to the organization spanned more than two decades. His departure marks the end of an era for the Arkansas-based bank holding company, which cited his profound impact on its culture and strategic direction.

French held several key leadership roles throughout his tenure. He served as Chief Executive Officer and President of Centennial Bank from 2015 through 2024. In 2019, he was named Chairman of Centennial Bank. Prior to assuming the CEO role, he acted as Regional President of Centennial Bank from 2009 to 2015. Before joining the Home BancShares organization through the acquisition of Community Bank in 2003, French served as President, Chief Executive Officer, and a director of Community Bank from 2002 to 2009.

In February 2025, French began a planned transition toward retirement. He concluded his board service in April 2025 but continued serving as an advisor to senior management at both Home BancShares and Centennial Bank. In this advisory capacity, he remained actively engaged, providing leadership, guidance, and mentorship until his death.

John Allison, Chairman of Home BancShares, highlighted French’s enduring legacy. "Tracy was much more than a colleague and director; he was a trusted friend, an exceptional banker, and a leader whose impact on this Company will be felt for generations," Allison said. He noted that French devoted his career to serving customers, communities, employees, and shareholders, helping shape the organization into what it is today.

Career Timeline

Home BancShares, Inc. is headquartered in Conway, Arkansas. Its subsidiary, Centennial Bank, provides commercial and retail banking services across Arkansas, Florida, Texas, Tennessee, South Alabama, and New York City. The company’s common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol HOMB.

Home BancShares, Inc. has increased its quarterly cash dividend by 9.5% to $0.23 per share, payable September 2, 2026, to shareholders of record August 12, 2026. The new dividend represents a $0.02 increase over the $0.21 paid in the second quarter of 2026 and a $0.03, or 15.0%, increase over the $0.20 paid in the third quarter of 2025. The decision underscores the company's confidence in its long-term earnings power and commitment to returning value to shareholders.

John Allison, Chairman, attributed the dividend increase to a strong capital foundation and consistent peer-leading profitability. He emphasized that the company's performance metrics have enabled it to build capital, support growth, and reward shareholders simultaneously. The Board of Directors approved the dividend declaration, highlighting the financial flexibility provided by Home BancShares' capital position.

Dividend Details

The following table outlines the recent dividend history of Home BancShares:

Corporate Profile

Home BancShares, Inc. is a bank holding company headquartered in Conway, Arkansas. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, Centennial Bank, offers commercial and retail banking services to businesses, real estate developers, investors, individuals, and municipalities. Centennial Bank operates branches in Arkansas, Florida, Texas, Tennessee, South Alabama, and New York City. The company's common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "HOMB."