The creator of Precious Moments, Samuel Butcher, has died at the age of 85.
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The Precious Moments company wrote a statement about the devastating loss on their official Facebook page.
“It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Precious Moments beloved founder, Sam Butcher, who was called home to God in the early morning hours today, surrounded by loved ones,” the company wrote. “In his final words he shared that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were with him, and that it was beautiful.”
Though he may not be here physically anymore, his spirit and legacy will forever live on.
“Although the sorrow is great, it is our prayer that the appreciation and celebration of his legacy be even greater – the legacy of his glory-filled life, the countless blessings he bestowed upon the millions of lives he touched, and the incredible fulfillment of his life’s mission: to share God’s gift of love with the world,” the Facebook post continued.
Samuel Butcher, Creator of Precious Moments, Dead at 85 — but His Legacy Carries On
According to the company’s website, Butcher grew up in a poor family. However, he always felt drawn to art and spent most of his childhood days drawing and sketching. Family and friends recognized his talent, but his family did not have the financial means to support it.
Eventually, Butcher’s spirituality and connection with Jesus inspired him to pursue art, his story went. He received a scholarship to the College of Arts & Crafts in Berkeley. Afterward, he went on to spread his faith through his artistic talents.
“To convey his message, Sam began drawing the endearing teardrop-eyed children he called ‘Precious Moments’ for family and friends,” the website states. “Then, for several years, Sam was seen on television as the story illustrator for the inspiration children’s program, Tree Top House, drawing his teardrop-eyed images to tell the stories.
“Precious Moments artwork was introduced to the public in 1975 on inspirational greeting cards and posters, and in 1978 the first Precious Moments figurines were unveiled,” his bio continues.
“But even the success of what he created did not satisfy Sam. In his heart was a desire to honor the Lord by building the Precious Moments Chapel. Since the structure’s initial completion in 1989, millions of visitors have come to admire his work and share his faith.”
Many fans and loved ones of Butcher will miss him dearly. His Precious Moments legacy will live on forever.