Paragon Team
Sometimes, it may look like banks and bankers are just a commodity, and it really doesn’t matter which one you use as long as they keep your money safe. Our team takes a different approach. We want to be your trusted financial partner. Since money is such a personal issue, wouldn’t it make sense to bank with people that not only know your name but also work tirelessly to help you reach your financial dreams and goals?
At Paragon, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We value and support each other. We come to work with a singular focus on how we can best serve our customers. We believe in the power of exceptional service and how important it is to be deeply invested in serving our communities.
Mortgage
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Chris Waggoner
Senior Vice President - Director of Mortgage Lending
Memphis, TN
901.322.0751
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Gina DiCicco
Senior Vice President - Regional Mortgage Executive
Wilmington, NC
910.218.7002
Gina has over 30 years of experience in the mortgage industry and has worked as both a mortgage consultant and mortgage executive. She has also played a key role in establishing and developing various mortgage departments at community banks. Originally from Dell, Arkansas, Gina has made Wilmington, NC, her home since 1993. In her free time, she loves to unwind by the pool on Saturdays and enjoys golfing with friends and clients.
With her vast lending knowledge, Gina stays informed about industry changes, ensuring her clients receive the most appropriate loans tailored to their unique needs. Her personal touch and commitment to helping clients are evident in her impressive success rate and strong reputation for securing loan approvals.
Gina takes great pride in growing her business through referrals, emphasizing the importance of building lasting relationships and encouraging repeat business through her network and community engagement. She is proud to represent Paragon in Wilmington and its surrounding areas, actively volunteering with local non-profits and serving on various boards.
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Stephen Rodda
Vice President - Mortgage Consultant
Memphis, TN
901.322.0784
Stephen Rodda is a seasoned mortgage lender with years of experience helping clients achieve homeownership. A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Stephen began his career in mortgage lending in 2008 and has built a reputation for providing personalized guidance and expert solutions tailored to each borrower’s needs. Residing in Memphis with his wife and two daughters, Stephen is dedicated to serving the local community with integrity and professionalism. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or refinancing your current home, Stephen is committed to making the mortgage process smooth and stress-free.
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Crews Wellford
Vice President - Mortgage Consultant
Memphis, TN
901.322.0757
Crews Wellford is an experienced Loan Officer specializing in mortgage lending and banking. He began his career at Paragon in Memphis, TN, in 2017 after graduating from the University of Alabama.
Whether you are a first-time homebuyer or looking for financing for a second residence, Crews excels in finding customized solutions that align with your financial needs. Additionally, he has expertise in commercial lending and private banking services. Crews resides in Huntsville, Alabama, with his wife, Rachel, their golden retriever, Wally, and their newborn daughter, Eloise.
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Andrea Rutherford
Senior Mortgage Loan Officer
Oxford, MS
662.259.8345
Andrea brings over 20 years of experience in the mortgage and banking industry. She launched her career in Memphis and has been a prominent figure in the Oxford, MS, and North Mississippi market for the past 19 years. Her strongest asset as a mortgage loan officer is her ability to communicate effectively, and she takes pleasure in assisting customers in finding the best products for their needs. Throughout the loan process, she maintains open lines of communication, keeping customers updated on progress and addressing any questions that may arise before and after the loan closes. Andrea is diligent in collecting necessary documents and ensuring that all information is accurate, facilitating a smooth loan experience.
Andrea currently resides in Water Valley, MS, with her husband, Tim. They are parents to five children and grandparents to two granddaughters and one grandson. Andrea is an active member of the Oxford – Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce, where she serves as an ambassador, and she is also involved with Anchor Baptist Church in Oxford.
Whether you are seeking conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, or portfolio loans, Paragon has the perfect solution for you.
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Nancy Walls
Assistant Vice President - Community Development Officer
Memphis, TN
With over thirty years of extensive experience in the banking industry, Nancy has held various roles, each adding to her impressive array of knowledge and skills. Her career is characterized by a steadfast dedication to nurturing growth and establishing lasting relationships within her community. As the Community Development Officer, Nancy plays a crucial role in driving sustainable development, engagement, and empowerment.
In her current role, Nancy not only prioritizes banking operations but also invests time in understanding and addressing the unique needs of organizations and potential clients. Her commitment ensures that the most appropriate programs, products, and services are accessible, promoting home ownership, account creation, and comprehensive banking solutions tailored to diverse needs.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Nancy is a strong pillar of support and service in her personal life. She actively participates with her family and is a devoted member of New Direction Church, where she serves as a First Impressions Greeter and is involved with the Community Outreach Team. Her passion for service shines through her thirty-year commitment to MIFA’s Meals on Wheels Program, where she has diligently worked to deliver meals to residents across the Mid-South Area.
Nancy’s contributions reach far beyond her job, as she enthusiastically participates in economic initiatives, educational programs, and advocacy efforts that enhance her community. Her work reflects her commitment to fostering a vibrant, empowered, and interconnected community and family. Through her actions, Nancy continues to inspire and influence those around her, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication.
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Michael Brennan
Mortgage Consultant
Atlanta, GA
470.225.5527
Michael Brennan is a seasoned mortgage lender with more than ten years of experience in assisting clients in achieving their dream of homeownership. A proud graduate of the University of Mississippi, he is recognized for his expert guidance and effective communication. Residing in Atlanta with his wife, Rachel, and their dog, Judge, Michael is committed to serving his community with integrity and professionalism. Whether you’re purchasing your first home or refinancing, he ensures a smooth and seamless process.
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Bern Ramsey
Mortgage Consultant
Atlanta, GA
470.225.5507
Bern Ramsey grew up in Macon, Georgia, and earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia. After starting his career in home building and credit card processing, he transitioned to residential mortgages, where he has thrived for over a decade. Bern has been recognized with multiple Gold Awards from the Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia, reflecting his success and dedication to the industry.
He currently resides in Atlanta with his wife, two children and their Labrador Retriever. Outside of work, Bern enjoys playing golf and cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs at UGA football games.