Support Staff

Mischa Barrett joined the Poplar Springs staff in August of 2023 as the office manager. She had previously worked in healthcare as an administrative assistant. Originally from Columbus, Ohio, Mischa moved to Shelby, NC in the late 90’s and started a family here. She has two grown daughters, Makenna and Marissa, whom she loves spending time with any chance she gets. She enjoys reading, writing letters and cards to friends and family and being with her girls.

Gailya Hamrick became an accompanist for Poplar Springs Worship Services in June, 1968 at the age of twelve. She has played both the piano and organ at regular worship services, special services, weddings and other events, but her passion is piano. Gailya enjoys accompanying the choir and congregation as together they strive to make a ‘joyful noise’ in praise to God. Gailya and her husband, John have 3 children ( 1 son and 2 daughters) and 4 grandchildren (2 grandsons…

Clyde served as a minister in NC Baptist churches for 43 years before his retirement in 2011.  The last thirty-one years of that was at Poplar Springs where he ministered in many different capacities (Music, Youth, Children, Singles, Senior Adults, Associate Pastor, and bus driver.)  He currently serves as sexton, deacon, member of the adult bell choir, chairman of the transportation committee and as a bass singer who sits in the back row of the Sanctuary Choir and misbehaves. He…

Hugh Bess has been a lifelong member of Poplar Springs Baptist Church. In 2008, Hugh joined the church staff as the Host. In this part time role, Hugh is responsible for taking care of activities related to the Family Life Center Kitchen and for planning and implementing the Wednesday Night Meals. Hugh is married to Carolyn, and together they have two adult sons.