HAMPTON ROADS, Va.–A long-time leader in credit unions who was known during her career for holding a number of national positions, has died.
Jean Yokum, who served for 33 years as president and CEO of Langley Federal Credit Union, passed away at age 90. Yokum led the credit union from 1979-2012 before retiring, after starting in 1953 as a teller. During her career Yokum oversaw growth to $1.6 billion in assets.
“The Hampton Roads community has lost a true leader and friend,” Langley FCU Chairman Ted Henifin said in a statement. “In addition to her work at Langley, Jean was truly dedicated to our community and she made a significant impact working with many non-profit organizations in Hampton Roads.”
Yokum served on the boards of several state and national trade groups over the years, including 20 years on the board of the Defense Credit Union Council. DCUC inducted Yokum into its Hall of Honor in 2013.
The National Association of Federal Credit Unions named her Credit Union Professional of the Year in 1983, and in 2010 the Virginia CU League presented Yokum with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
‘Enduring Impact’
Today, Langley FCU also offers a college scholarship named after Yokum.
“Jean made an enduring impact at Langley … and became one of the top 100 credit unions in the country,” Tom Ryan, Langley’s president and CEO, said in a statement. “Jean’s work in our industry led Langley to national prominence.”