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Retired Superintendent Couple Reflect on Rodeo Roots
Ronny and Terri Collins found love at a Texas rodeo and built a life of service and adventure.
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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Just over 50 years ago, Ronny Collins and Terri met for the first time at a rodeo in Justin, Texas, where they were both pursuing their rodeo passions - Ronny as a rodeo clown and Terri as a bull rider. Despite the initial 'unlucky turn of events' when a truck backed into a power pole, plunging the arena into darkness, the couple's chance meeting blossomed into a lifelong partnership built on faith, family, and a shared spirit of adventure.
Why it matters
This heartwarming story of how a chance encounter at a rodeo led to a decades-long marriage and career in education highlights the power of serendipity and the importance of following one's passions, even if the path is not always straightforward. The Collins' story also underscores the value of community, family, and faith in navigating life's challenges.
The details
Ronny and Terri dated for two years before marrying, with Ronny working as a rodeo clown to help pay for his education at Tarleton State University. After getting married, the couple faced many professional and personal hurdles, including living in a mobile home early on, but they persevered through Ronny's teaching and superintendent roles across Texas and Terri's own educational journey to a bachelor's degree. Throughout it all, they remained committed to their Christian values and to raising their two sons, who went on to become successful professionals themselves.
- The couple met at a rodeo in Justin, Texas in 1974.
- Ronny and Terri married in 1976 when he was 22 and she was 19.
- Ronny served as a school superintendent in Wellington (1989-1997), Jacksboro (1997-2003), Snyder (2003-2008) and Mineral Wells (2008-2012).
- Terri earned her bachelor's degree from Tarleton State in 2003 after attending seven different higher education institutions.
- Ronny and Terri are now retired and living near Grandview, Texas.
The players
Ronny Collins
A former rodeo clown who went on to have a 22-year career as a school superintendent in Texas.
Terri Collins
Ronny's wife, who rode bulls for four years in her youth and later became an elementary school teacher after earning her bachelor's degree.
Dr. Brad Collins
The Collins' son, who is now a chiropractor in Midlothian, Texas.
Dr. Todd Collins
The Collins' other son, who is a dentist in Groesbeck, Texas and also coaches a homeschool football team.
Kandace
Brad Collins' wife, who is a dentist in Grandview.
Amy
Todd Collins' wife, who homeschools their three children.
What they’re saying
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The couple plans to continue enjoying their retirement by staying involved in the lives of their children and grandchildren, as well as remaining active in their church and local community.
The takeaway
Ronny and Terri Collins' story is a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and following one's passions, even when the path is not always clear. Their journey from chance rodeo meeting to decades of service and family life serves as an inspiration for others seeking to build meaningful lives and legacies.
