Richard Clyde Collins

Richard Clyde Collins, beloved husband, father, grandfather, educator, mentor, and master hairstylist, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2026, in Tyler, Texas, at the age of 82. Richard was born on December 3, 1943, in Marin City, California, to Manonne and Curtis Collins. He lived a life defined by hard work, creativity, generosity, faith, and a genuine love for people.

 In 1959, Richard married the love of his life, Barbara Jane Ellington. Together they shared 67 years of marriage, building a family rooted in love, devotion, and enduring commitment. Their marriage served as an inspiration to all who knew them.Richard was a man of deep faith whose commitment to serving others extended beyond his profession and into his church community. As a young man, he attended Ross Avenue Christian Church, where he developed the Christian foundation that would guide him throughout his life. He later helped establish University Christian Church and became one of its charter members. Years later, he was also instrumental in the formation of Open Arms Christian Church, where he was a charter member and faithful servant. Throughout his years of church involvement, Richard served on the Board of Directors and held numerous leadership and volunteer positions, always giving generously of his time, talents, and heart. 

At just 17 years old, Richard began his career as a hairdresser, working alongside his stepfather, Joseph Pritchett. What began as a young man's profession became a lifelong passion and calling. For more than six decades, Richard dedicated himself to helping the women of Tyler look and feel their best. His talent, professionalism, and commitment to excellence earned him numerous honors throughout his career, including the prestigious Texas State Award, one of the highest distinctions in the beauty industry.Richard's influence extended far beyond his salon chair. As owner of Richard & Joseph’s Artistic School of Hair Design, he trained and mentored countless aspiring hairstylists, shaping generations of beauty professionals who carried his lessons, standards, and encouragement throughout their careers. His legacy lives on not only in his family, but also in the many lives he touched through his work, teaching, and ministry.

Richard was a devoted family man who treasured every moment spent with those he loved. He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Collins; his daughters, Lisa Montgomery; Kristi Murphy and husband Kevin; Kerri High and husband Nelson Gilbert; and Lauren Garner and husband Tony Garner. He is also survived by his brothers, James Collins and Henry Collins and wife Inna.He was a proud and loving grandfather to eight grandchildren: Bryce Murphy, Braden Murphy, Bailey Guidry, Sydney Skelton, Collin Skelton, Jaiden Craig, Bennett Carter, and Ramsay Collins. He was also blessed with two great grandchildren, Magnolia Murphy and Brooks Guidry. Nothing brought Richard greater joy than watching his family grow and celebrating their accomplishments.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Ann and Curtis Collins and Mannone and Joseph Pritchett, his brothers, Curtis Collins Jr. and Michael Collins; and his stepbrother, Joe Pritchett.Richard will be remembered for his warm smile, his artistic talent, his unwavering work ethic, and the kindness he showed to everyone he met. Through his dedication to his craft, his commitment to education, his faithful service to the church, and his deep love for family, he leaves behind a remarkable legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.His family finds comfort in knowing that while Richard's earthly journey has ended, the beauty he created in the lives of others will endure for years to come.

A memorial service will be held on June 20, 2026 at 11:00 at First Christian Church of Tyler.