NEWMAN — In a town known for its charm and neighborly spirit, few figures have captured the heart of the Westside like Larry Milton, affectionately known as the “Butterfly Man.” For the past seven years, Milton has quietly adorned homes, schools, and storefronts with handcrafted wooden butterflies—symbols of beauty, love, and transformation. Now, as he recovers from a broken hip, the community he’s brightened is rallying behind him.
Milton, who recently underwent surgery following a fall, remains optimistic and grateful. In a recorded message shared by his family, he reflected on the origins of his butterfly-making journey.
“My brother-in-law gave me this atom for a wing,” Milton said with a smile. “It took me about two years to figure that out, to put it back on land and be put back on land.”
Since then, Milton estimates he has created more than 400 butterflies, never accepting payment. Instead, he encourages those touched by his work to donate to local animal shelters, often naming Tails A Wagging All Breed Rescue.
“The meaning in butterflies is niceness and goodness and all that stuff—beauty and love,” Milton said.
Doctors expect Milton may be released from the hospital in the coming days. Meanwhile, messages of support continue to pour in from across Newman, Gustine, and surrounding communities.
Milton’s butterflies are more than decorations—they are emblems of kindness and connection. Angela Cortez, a local teacher, displays one on her classroom door.
“Every morning, it reminds my students and me to be gentle, to be bright, and to keep growing,” Cortez said. “Larry’s butterflies aren’t just wood—they’re hope, painted.”
Ron Herrera, a longtime resident, praised Milton’s selflessness.
“This man has made hundreds of these butterflies and never once asked for anything,” Herrera said. “That kind of spirit is rare. He’s made Newman a better place—plain and simple.”
Children have also felt Milton’s impact. Emily and Jordan Sanchez, ages 10 and 7, shared their affection for a pink butterfly gifted to their grandmother.
“It’s our favorite,” Emily said. “We check on it every day.”
“I want to make butterflies like Larry when I grow up,” Jordan added.
Denise Alvarez noted Milton’s deeper mission.
“He didn’t just ask people to donate to shelters—he made it a mission,” Alvarez said. “Every butterfly came with kindness and purpose.”
Jose Flores, with the Gustine Traveling Library, described the butterflies displayed at the library’s headquarters.
“We have four of Larry’s beautiful creations flying above the children’s heads as they enter,” Flores said. “Each butterfly represents a loved one we’ve lost. We’re thankful to honor them in this way while adding a touch of enchantment to downtown.”
John Malloy reflected on Milton’s legacy.
“He took something small—scraps of wood—and turned it into something that changed lives,” Malloy said. “He didn’t do it for fame. He did it because it was right.”
As Milton continues to heal, residents are sending cards and messages of gratitude. Cards can be mailed or dropped off at Mechanics Bank, 1305 A Main Street, Newman, to ensure they reach him.
