Town Honors Mrs. Bolyard for Gift to Parks

"You have really set the example, and we thank you very, very much. You have said you want to give back to the community, and you have done so in an awesome way."

Those were the words of Mayor Jody McLeod during a ceremony at Town Hall honoring lifelong resident Rochelle Bolyard, who last month donated $20,000 for the town's parks.

Assisted by Parks & Recreation Director Larry Bailey, the Mayor presented Mrs. Bolyard with a plaque at a recent Town Council meeting, symbolizing the town's appreciation for her gift and her long devotion to the Senior Games.

Mrs. Bolyard, who made the donation in the name of her parents, Brinton and Bettie Coats Harrison, said her family has long had a love for the town of Clayton, and she believes they would be happy with the way the town has developed.

"It's people are still down to earth," she told the Mayor and Council, "and I hope they stay that way."

Though she worked in state government for many years and as Executive Secretary of the Chamber of Commerce, many know Mrs. Bolyard best as a record-setting athlete who loves to compete. She’s participated in the Johnston County Senior Games and North Carolina Senior Games for the last 21 years, except for last year when her health wouldn't permit it, and has placed at the National Senior Olympics. She's even carried the Olympic Torch through town.