DURANT, Okla. – This month’s Texoma Legend is John Massey. Charlie Haldeman brings us more about the Durant businessman and philanthropist.

There are a lot of subjects that make John Massey's face light up. Aside from his faith and family, his hometown and his school are also at the top of the list.

“It was the greatest three-year experience I could ever have. People gave me so much time and attention. I just treasure those memories there, and I love that school.”

Massey got into banking full-time in the mid-1980's after operating hotels in Durant and Sherman and was met with some skepticism when he announced a lofty goal.

“I wanted to be a billion-dollar bank. All my friends said, ‘You can't do that from Durant, Oklahoma,’ and we did,” Massey says.

Despite his fortunes and lofty goals, Massey is easy-going, and he attributes his success in part to some simple rules.

“Always keeping my word, being totally honest, you’re never too smart.”

It’s advice from a man some in Texoma call a legend.