Richard R. Rogers, co-founder and Chairman Emeritus of Mary Kay Inc., died aged 82 on 31 March 2026.
The news was confirmed by the brand, which wrote in a statement: “It is with great sadness that Mary Kay Inc. announces the passing of Richard R. Rogers, co‑founder and Chairman Emeritus of the company.
“The entire Mary Kay family – including millions of independent sales force members across 40 markets – mourns this loss.
“Richard ensured the company was placed in excellent hands many years ago.
“The Mary Kay Leadership Team, including his son, Ryan Rogers, serving as CEO, remains firmly committed to upholding Mary Kay’s vision, principles, and enduring opportunity for women around the world.
“On behalf of our Board of Directors, Executive Team, and Employees, we extend our deepest sympathies to Richard’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Rogers co-founded the cosmetics company, first called Beauty by Mary Kay, with his mother, Mary Kay Ash, in 1963.
The mother-son duo launched the business with a mission to empower women.
Richard went on to run the business for many years, and stepped into the CEO role in 1987.
He first retired from the company in 1991, ceding his CEO duties before rejoining in the same position in 2001.
He went on to step down in 2006 for a second time, remaining a member of the company’s board.
The business remains within the family, with Richard’s son, Ryan Rogers, serving as CEO since November 2022.
The father and son were involved in a multi-state, multi-year legal battle, centered around a trust created by Ash worth hundreds of millions of dollars.