Larry Kent Milton, age 83, of Newman, California, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025.
Larry was born in Sioux City, Iowa, to Mildred and Orly Willard Milton. He later made his home in Newman, where he became a beloved figure in the community and, above all, a devoted family man.
Affectionately known as “The Butterfly Man,” Larry was widely recognized for the handcrafted wooden butterflies he created throughout the Newman area. His colorful butterflies adorned homes, schools, and storefronts–each one a symbol of joy, beauty, and transformation. They were more than decorations; they were expressions of his creativity and generosity, quietly brightening the lives of countless neighbors and friends.
Larry dedicated the last 15 years to volunteering with the AIDS Lifecycle, where he often dressed up to cheer on riders and bring laughter and warmth to the event. His energy, spirit, and deep empathy were hallmarks of who he was—a man who showed up, gave back, and made others feel seen and loved.
More than anything, Larry was a family man. He was the devoted husband and best friend of Sheila Marie Milton, with whom he shared 64 beautiful years of marriage. Their love was the foundation of their family-steady, joyful, and unconditional. Larry was a deeply caring and supportive father to his daughters, Christy Muller and Rhonda Fuller, always present with encouragement, a helping hand, or a well-timed joke. His family was his pride and joy, and he made it known in both word and deed.
Larry’s personality lit up every room he entered. With a contagious laugh, a kind spirit, and a heart full of love, he made everyone feel like part of the family. He was a meticulous master electrician by trade, known for his skill and dedication to doing things right. He also had a soft spot for animals-especially his beloved fur babies who brought him comfort and companionship.
Larry is survived by his loving wife Sheila; his daughters Christy Muller and Rhonda Fuller; his siblings Arthur Milton and Janet Besaw (Don); and his cherished grandchildren Alec Fuller (Patience) and Claire Fuller. He is also remembered fondly by many nieces and nephews:
Jennifer Muller, Jaime Muller, Holly Berndt, Josh Berndt, Cindy, Paul Milton, Lloyd Milton Jr., Aaron Milton, Vincent Milton, Sherry Dering, Carl Besaw, and Carol Besaw-along with many dear friends and member of the community whose lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his son-in-law Jeffery Muller; his parents, Orly and Mildred Milton; his brother Lloyd Milton; his sister
Sharon Besaw; and his nephew Larry Besaw.
A celebration of Larry’s life will be announced at a later date.
Though he may be gone, Larry’s legacy lives on in the butterflies he lovingly made, the laughter he brought into the world, and the deep love he poured into his family.
He will be remembered always—for the life he lived, the hearts he touched, and the love that endures.
