MANSFIELD — Before drywall covers the beams and a family begins making memories inside, a small pink butterfly has already left its mark on Chelsea Drive’s newest home.
The butterfly stamped into the home’s framing serves as a lasting reminder of Delaney Kilbane, an Avon Lake girl whose legacy continues to inspire kindness and hope.
Kilbane had a gift for making those around her feel seen, loved and welcome, whether it was the new girl at school or a stranger at the grocery store. Friends and family remember her for her infectious smile, unwavering faith, and the kindness she showed to everyone she met.
After she died at just 8 years old due to complications from epilepsy, her family launched The Live Like Delaney Foundation to promote kindness and empathy through education, scholarships and community outreach.
Wigton Homes, a custom home builder in Mansfield, named one of its home models in her honor in partnership with the Live Like Delaney Foundation.
A butterfly will be stamped inside every Delaney model built, symbolizing her spirit of kindness. In addition, $1,000 from each home sold will be donated to the foundation.
“We felt this was a meaningful way to carry her name forward in a way that reflects warmth, comfort and the idea of home, something she so naturally created for others through her kindness,” said Lisa Somerville, vice president of operations for THA Mortgage, a frequent lending partner of Wigton Homes.
‘Our goal is truly to continue showing people that they matter’
The first Delaney model is now under construction in Mansfield and will be home to a local pastor.
For the builders working on the home, the project represents more than just another construction job. It’s an opportunity to carry Delaney’s message forward.
“Our goal truly is to continue showing people that they matter, and that they’re loved, and that they’re supported,” her mother, Megan Kilbane, said. “Look outside yourself, serve others, be there for others, think about others.”
As more homes are built, each butterfly, stamped by Megan herself, will serve as a quiet reminder that even the smallest acts of compassion can have a lasting impact.
For the Kilbane family, seeing Delaney’s legacy become part of homes where families will grow is a meaningful continuation of the mission she inspired.
“She was always finding that one person that needed something, and whatever it was, she gave it to them,” Megan said. “I think that if we all just turned our eyes up towards others and served others, it would be a beautiful world.”
