Steven J. Milliard

Sterling - Steven J. Milliard, 59 of Sterling passed away unexpectedly on July 5, 2025 at his home in Sterling. Steve was known for his vibrant personality and his unparalleled love for his family and friends. 

Steven leaves behind his loving wife of 34 years, Donna Milliard. He cherished his mother, Ann Barbato, with whom we resided. Steve was the proud father of Allison Dolan and her husband, Benjamin Dolan. He is also survived by his brother, Mark Barbato and his wife, Christine; his brother, Brian Milliard; his sisters and brothers-in-law, Sue and Mike Melisi, David and Suzanne Laughrea; his niece and nephews, Kate, Joe, Michael, Jason, Jimmy, Matt, Zachary, Brad, Sam and Nick, who each held a special place in his heart. He also leaves Aunts, Uncles, cousins, extended family and friends who loved him beyond words. His dog, Violet, and his Grand Pets will miss him dearly. 

Steve was predeceased by his father, Robert Milliard, his Dad, James Barbato, and his mother and father-in-law, Jim and Pauline Laughrea. 

Steve attended St. Peter Marian High and then graduated from Wachusett Regional High School in 1984. Steven furthered his education at New Hampshire Vocational Technical School. 

Steven's life was filled with joy brought on by his many interests. He was an extremely brilliant, strong and proud man. he had an amazing ability to fix, visualize, plan and execute projects to perfection around his home and others. He was an avid Boston sports fan (especially when they were winning). He was an outdoorsman, enjoying off-road driving on the beaches of Cape Cod. Camping and spending time with his dog. His love for music including The Grateful Dead was immense. He attended countless concerts with family and friends creating memories that will never fade away. 

Steve's social circles in and around the Sterling community were vast. His humor was unique. He treated friends as family, which mirrored his generous and dependable nature. His professional life was devoted to carpentry, a trade where he excelled and found great satisfaction. He was a licensed General Contractor. He owned and operated SJM Home Improvement for many years, later working as a Building Manager in Allston and Cambridge. He would often deliver blankets, coats, and clothes to homeless folks in that area. For fun, Steve and Allison worked together at the Lowell Summer Music Series working with musicians including Blues Travelers, Lyle Lovett, Amos Lee, Stephen Stills, David Crosby, Michael Franti, Boz Scaggs and countless others. 

We invite family and friends to join us on July 20th from 12:00 to 4:00 at the Holden Hills Country Club, 1800 Main Street, Jefferson. We will raise a glass or two and share stories. This is a casual event. Wear your comfortable clothes or perhaps favorite Grateful Dead or Boston Sports Gear. Attendees are encouraged to bring a sense of humor, a joke or two, some positive energy, and love to honor Steve. In lieu of flowers please plant a tree or plant in a place that you love that will remind you of him as it grows or share some warmth or comfort items with a person in need. Something Steve did often on the streets of Allston and Cambridge.