COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — The South Carolina beauty industry, family members, friends, former students, and educators are mourning the heartbreaking death of Kenneth Shuler, the respected founder and CEO of Kenneth Shuler School of Cosmetology, whose remarkable career transformed cosmetology education and inspired generations of beauty professionals.
Kenneth Shuler passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, October 11, 2026, following a prolonged battle with health challenges. His death was confirmed by his son, Garrett Shuler, vice president of the cosmetology school network.
Born and raised in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Kenneth built an extraordinary career from humble beginnings. After attending barber college in Greenville, he began working as a barber in Myrtle Beach, where he spent more than eight years developing his skills and building a loyal clientele.
In 1968, he purchased Capital Barber College in Columbia, beginning a journey that would eventually establish one of South Carolina’s most recognized cosmetology education institutions.
Over the following decades, Kenneth expanded his vision into a statewide network of beauty schools, providing professional training and career opportunities for thousands of aspiring cosmetologists, estheticians, and beauty industry professionals.
His contributions earned numerous professional honors, including the prestigious Order of the Palmetto in 2014, South Carolina’s highest civilian recognition.
Beyond his business accomplishments, Kenneth was admired for his commitment to mentorship, personal development, and helping students achieve their dreams.
In an emotional tribute, a former student reflected on the extraordinary influence Kenneth had on their 14-year professional journey.
The graduate recalled beginning cosmetology school at the Garners Ferry campus on December 4, 2012, and completing the required hours for cosmetology licensure on October 31, 2014.
They later returned for esthetics training, worked as a front desk coordinator, and eventually became a licensed instructor.
Throughout those experiences, Kenneth remained a source of inspiration and professional guidance.
One of his most memorable teachings was the 80/20 rule, which emphasized that clients often return because of how professionals treat them rather than technical ability alone.
He encouraged students to recognize that skills could be developed through practice, but kindness, character, and personal connections were equally essential to long-term success.
The former student credited Kenneth’s teachings with helping shape their career as an award-winning cosmetologist, aesthetician, and educator.
His son Garrett also paid tribute to his father’s remarkable legacy, encouraging students, instructors, and colleagues to continue pursuing the vision he established.
As the beauty community reflects on Kenneth’s life, his influence remains visible through the countless professionals whose careers began inside his classrooms.
Funeral and memorial arrangements have not yet been publicly confirmed.
Heartfelt condolences go out to the entire Shuler family, friends, colleagues, former students, and everyone whose life was positively influenced by his dedication to education.
Rest in peace, Kenneth Shuler. Your vision, mentorship, and extraordinary contributions to the beauty industry will continue inspiring generations of professionals for years to come.
