It is with deep sadness that we share the news that our friend and dedicated board member, Roland L. "Ozzie" Oswald, Sr., has passed away.

Ozzie had a passion for the credit union and much of what we know about the history of Gulf Winds we credit to the stories he fondly shared.

An Escambia County native, Ozzie started working at the Chemstrand plant in 1958 and began volunteering with the credit union nearly 65 years ago. Back then, Ozzie was a member of the Credit Committee approving small loans. Throughout the years with Gulf Winds, he was a Board Member leading the credit union to make the right decisions for the right reasons.

As a pillar of the community, Ozzie embodied the spirit of people helping people. He believed a credit union should be based on making a difference for those in need and was a driving figure in beginning our impactful partnerships with Manna Food Pantry and other non-profits.

Ozzie's legacy is a great example of a life well lived. His wisdom will guide us for years to come. Our team feels grateful and lucky to have gotten the opportunity to learn from and work alongside him. He will be missed, and we owe much to his leadership.

Please keep the entire Oswald family in your thoughts and prayers.