Richard Allan Johns was born on March 12, 1952, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to the late Francis Deward Johns and Pauline Allen. On the afternoon of June 20, 2026, he was tragically taken away from his family and friends, leaving a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him.

Richard was educated in the Philadelphia Public School System and graduated from Simon Gratz High School. As a young man, he found himself intrigued by the art of hair, which prompted him to enroll in barber school, where he successfully earned his associate degree.

While working diligently to establish his career as a barber. Additionally, Richard did a stint as a long-distance truck driver for Covenant Trucking Company. This profession afforded him the opportunity to travel, exploring the beauty and expanse of the entire East Coast.

Though he grew up in a Christian home, Richard possessed a natural curiosity and an analytical mind. His spiritual journey led him to explore Islam, a faith he ultimately embraced, practiced, and studied deeply. Upon his conversion, he chose the name Aquill, reflecting the new chapter of his spiritual life.

A Master of His Craft

In his early years, Richard (Aquill) mastered the skill of barbering. He was a perfectionist behind the chair; precise with his lines, everything had to be sharp, crisp, and well-pointed. He became a well-known and respected fixture in the Germantown area, where he served as the manager of Versatile Barber Shop. His dedication extended far beyond the shop walls; Aquill was deeply active in the neighborhood, and his meaningful community work was even recognized by the Philadelphia Daily News.

After his time at Versatile, he found his forever professional home at Kontrol Barber Shop, located at 52nd & Spruce. Affectionately known as "Quill" to his colleagues and patrons, he built an extensive clientele list, with people traveling from far and near just to get a seat in his chair. Quill was a barber par excellence. He used his platform to mentor the next generation, providing a safe home and invaluable opportunities for many young, inexperienced barbers under his guidance. Upon his retirement from active cutting, he remained an indispensable part of the business, staying on as the shop manager.

Family, Style, and Legacy

Known affectionately as "Ricky" to his family, he was a deeply family-oriented man. Ricky was big on holiday and birthday celebrations. If there was a family cookout happening, everyone knew they could count on Ricky showing up—even if he was running a little late.

Ricky also had a lifelong passion for fashion, fine dress clothes, and sharp shoes. His impeccable sense of style and sharp looks even led to a brief stint in New York City as a model.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Pauline, and his beloved sister, Barbara.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory and carry on his legacy: Two Sisters: Phyllis Thurston and Gwendolyn Johns;Seven Nephews: Donald Booker (Crystal), Nate Johns (Yolanda), Ronald Booker , Tyrone Johns , Torrance Johns (Dee), Terrell Johns (Aisha), and Malik Johns (Sharlice)Four Nieces: Lisa Cook, Nadine Booker-Scott, Renee Carter (Aaron), and Geneva Summers (Hank) A Very Close Friend & Son: Anthony Murphy. He also leaves behind a vibrant host of great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, colleagues, and lifelong friends who will forever miss his sharp wit, his guidance, and his presence.