Edward A. "Ed" Townsend

Edward "Ed" A. Townsend, age 83, passed away on January 2, 2026, in Norman, Oklahoma. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected member of the Grove community, Ed was a distinguished businessman and a man of steadfast faith whose life was marked by generosity, perseverance, leadership, and service.

Born on March 9, 1942, in Brazil, Ed immigrated to Texas at the age of 12. Confronted with the challenges of adapting to a new country and language, he met each obstacle with determination-a spirit that would define his personal and professional journey.

Ed pursued higher education at the University of Texas with remarkable dedication. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Economics in 1964, followed by a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance in 1965. He went on to complete a Master of Business Administration in Finance in 1967. These academic accomplishments laid the groundwork for an influential career in banking and finance.

His professional ascent began at First National Bank in Dallas in 1970. By 1984 he had risen to the role of vice chairman and CFO. Simultaneously, Ed held leadership roles at Houston Citizens Bank-serving from 1979 to 1984.

On May 25, 1985, Ed married the love of his life, Barbara Newman, in Dallas, Texas. The couple made their home in Oklahoma. Together they shared 40 wonderful years and many cherished memories.

In 1985, Ed brought his expertise to Oklahoma as chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Local Federal and Local American Bank. His influence extended beyond these institutions through his service on the board of directors for the Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka. Throughout his career, Edward was recognized for his strategic insight and unwavering commitment to ethical financial leadership.

In 2004, after selling his company with plans to retire to the lake, Ed quickly discovered that retirement didn't suit him. Just four days into his new chapter, and with encouragement from his wife Barbara, he began seeking a new venture-one that would allow him to stay active and contribute meaningfully.

That search led to the founding of the Bank of Grove in 2005. Under Ed's leadership and vision, the bank grew and evolved into the Bank of Grand Lake. Over the past two decades, Ed built thousands of relationships within the Grand Lake community through his work in banking and beyond. His presence became a cornerstone of local development and philanthropy.

Ed and Barbara shared not only a life together but also a passion for service. They were instrumental in supporting the Delaware County Children's Advocacy Network and co-founded The Townsend Foundation. Through this foundation, they provided critical medical care for disadvantaged children-a legacy that will continue to impact lives for years to come.

Ed's dedication to community extended into healthcare leadership as well; Encouraged by Dr. Norman Cotner, Ed worked tirelessly with Integris until they were persuaded to build the new hospital facility in Grove. He lserved as chairman for Integris Health and earned recognition as a valued businessman in Grove. His contributions left lasting impacts on local institutions and enriched the lives of those around him.

A man guided by deep faith throughout his life, Ed was a member of Lake Center Baptist Church. His belief in Christ shaped both his personal values and his approach to leadership and service.

Ed is survived by his wife, Barbara Townsend; his daughters and their children: Jennifer Townsend Earls of Austin, Texas, Leslie Townsend Collins of Glenpool, OK, Lara Townsend Gradt of Austin, TX, Hilary Townsend of Austin, Tx and Jan Elaine "Lainey" Townsend Sundaram of Norman, OK., grandchildren: Bradley, Laren, Kiersten, Avery, Haylie, Michael and Lakshmi.

Ed is also survived by his brother, Charles Townsend, resides in Phoenix, AZ and his sister, Margaret Townsend de Cordon, lives in Guatemala City, Guatemala.

Ed's twin brother and lifelong best friend, William Seiffert Townsend, preceded him in death in February of 2006.

Ed's legacy of generosity, mentorship, philanthropy and commitment to his family and his community will live on as a lasting testament of the great man he was.

Visitation will be from 5pm-7pm Friday, January 9, 2026, at Nichols-Stephens Funeral Service. Funeral services will be at 2pm Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Grove's First Baptist Church. Burial to follow at Olympus Cemetery North.

If you would like to honor Ed's life with a gift, his passion for children was most deeply expressed through his work and giving to the Delaware County Children's Special Advocacy Network (DCCSAN) at dccsan.org or to Second Chance Pet Rescue in Grove.