Town’s operations staff dedicate flags to cherished colleagues

CLAYTON — The town’s operations staff sponsored three Flags for Heroes in memory of former colleagues Donnie Baker, Byron Poelman and William “Bill” Simpson.

Baker, who passed away in June 2019, was a street maintenance crew leader for the town, where he worked for 13 years. His legacy lives on not only through his coworkers’ memories but through his concrete and brick craftsmanship.

The brickwork that surrounds the front door of Hocutt-Ellington Memorial Library was Baker’s doing. Batista Grading used that same pattern for the Donnie Baker Memorial at the Clayton Operations Center. The town dedicated the memorial on Sept. 21, 2022.

Poelman, who died in October 2023, served the Town of Clayton in many capacities over the years, lastly as the director of water resources. Poelman was not only a colleague but also a cherished friend to many, his colleagues said. His generosity and work ethic earned him the respect and admiration of those who knew him.

Throughout his 26-year career with the town, Poelman played a pivotal role in the growth of the Water Resources Department. His leadership was instrumental in driving forward crucial water-related capital projects, leaving a legacy that will benefit the community for years.

Simpson, who died in April, served as superintendent of the sewage-treatment plant on Durham Street. He was also among the decision-makers in designing the town’s new treatment plant, which is under construction.

Colleagues said his passion for work was matched only by his unwavering kindness and willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

“Donnie, Byron and Bill were more than just colleagues; they were the heart and soul of our operations team,” said Heather Propst, the town’s senior administrative support specialist. “Donnie’s craftsmanship, Byron’s leadership and Bill’s passion have shaped the Town of Clayton in countless ways.

“Their memories will forever be a part of us, and their legacy lives on through the lasting contributions they made. These flags are a small token of our immense gratitude for the heroes they were to us all.”

The flags were on display through June 16 in the Flags for Heroes Clayton Field of Honor next to Johnston Health on N.C. 42.

Flags for Heroes is an initiative of Johnston County’s three Rotary clubs — the Clayton Rotary Club, Cleveland School Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Central Johnston County. Flags for Heroes honors veterans, current military, first responders, health care workers and others who have been an inspiration to the community.

Proceeds from flag sponsorships support Rotary projects, including college scholarships for high school seniors.

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