The fashion world is in mourning following the passing of Richard Buckley, a highly esteemed editor whose death has prompted an overwhelming expression of love and admiration. Richard passed away at the age of 72 in Los Angeles. His partner, renowned designer Tom Ford, confirmed the news, stating that Richard died peacefully at their Los Angeles home, surrounded by Tom and their son Jack. The cause of death was natural, resulting from a long illness.
Since news of his passing emerged, thousands of friends, colleagues, and industry insiders, including editors, designers, celebrities, communication directors, executives, buyers, and fashion enthusiasts, have taken to social media to share their deep affection and respect for Richard.
Stella McCartney, the godmother of Richard and Tom’s son Jack, praised his intellect and insatiable passion for knowledge. She described the spark in his eyes, which had the ability to touch hearts deeply. Rita Wilson, another godmother of Jack, fondly remembered Richard as a wildly creative and humorous individual with an extraordinary artistic eye.
Richard Buckley, known for his elegance and a voice reminiscent of Hollywood’s Golden Age leading men, embarked on his journalism career at New York Magazine in 1979. In 1982, he moved to Paris, where he gained recognition as an insightful European editor for the Daily News Record, the men’s fashion equivalent of Women’s Wear Daily. In 1986, he assumed the role of editor-in-chief at Scene, a junior downtown version of W Magazine.
His life took a profound turn when he met Tom Ford in the 1980s, marking the beginning of a lifelong partnership. Their inseparable bond eventually led to parenthood, and the couple welcomed their son, Jack. Richard often expressed immense pride in his role as a father. While Tom Ford achieved superstardom in the fashion industry, Richard continued to excel as an editor at Vanity Fair.
Buckley served as the Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Hommes International for several years, not without controversy, before settling in London with Tom Ford after Ford’s tenure at Gucci. Despite their lives in the spotlight, they took great care to protect their son Jack from media exposure.
Throughout his later years, Richard remained the epitome of courtesy and dignity. He retained his dry wit and military bearing, even during his battle with cancer, serving as an example to all.
Richard Buckley is survived by Tom Ford and their son, Alexander John Buckley Ford.
In memoriam, «Finis vitae sed non amoris» – The end of life but not of love.
