Lawrence Stang Millard, 88, of North Kingstown, left this world for eternal life on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at Newport Hospital. Born in Cranston, he was the son of the late William A. Millard and Mary (Stang) Millard. He was the beloved husband of Marilyn (Carr) Millard, formerly of Westerly.

Larry graduated from Cranston East High School in 1940. He was a U.S. Army veteran serving during WWII and later became a news Photographer for the Providence Journal for 39 years until his retirement in 1988. After retirement, he enjoyed working with his wife to support her business, Marilyn Millard Antiques, where they were vendors at numerous antique shows in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. He and Marilyn enjoyed many antique hunting trips traveling throughout New England. No one knew the art of exploring country back roads and finding hidden treasures better than Larry.

A man of faith, Larry was an active member of Quidnessett Baptist Church during the 60's and 70's. He served as Captain of the Christian Service Brigade Battalion for boys aged 12-18. He was also a member of the Board of Trustees, the Senior Choir, and the church Bowling League. He later was a member of Frenchtown Baptist Church.

Photography and a love of nature remained his passions throughout his lifetime. Larry combined the two seamlessly when he teamed with the late Ken Weber, a former Providence Journal writer and columnist, to provide the photography for two outdoor guide books published by New Hampshire Publishing Company. The first book published in 1978, 25 Walks in Rhode Island, a hiker's guide to trails from Buck Hill to Block Island was soon followed by the second, Canoeing Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut published in 1980.

An avid outdoorsman and naturalist, Larry enjoyed many outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, fishing, and canoeing. He was a member of the NRA, and belonged to various rod and gun clubs across the state. He also participated in amateur shooting and tennis competitions.

Never one to indulge in boredom, Larry pursued a wide array of activities and hobbies in his leisure time. He had an empathetic and generous heart contributing to many local and national charities. Always at the forefront were his sharp wit and fantastic sense of humor which endeared him to those who knew him well and the casual acquaintance alike. These remained true to character even in his final days.

He was a loving and devoted father to his four surviving children: Susan Millard of Portsmouth, Barbara M. Powell and her husband Roger of North Smithfield, Stephen A. Millard of Portsmouth, and Judith M. Awkerman and her husband Robert of Middletown. Larry was the cherished grandfather of seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. He also leaves his beloved cat, Missy, who gave him countless hours of joy and affection.

At Mr. Millard's request, his funeral and burial will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to The Cranston-Murphy Funeral Home of Wickford.

In lieu of flowers, and to honor Larry, please open your door to a stray cat or send a donation to your local feline rescue agency, offer help when you can be of service, forgive well and often, never believe you are too old to be silly, make time for your children always, turn to someone you love and tell them so - now.

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Cranston - Murphy Funeral Home of Wickford
140 West Main Street
North Kingstown, Rhode Island 02852
401-294-4013