When Bret and Roxanne Richards moved to Indian Lakes in 2019, they knew they were choosing more than just a house—they were choosing a community. Six years later, it’s clear they made the right decision. With their two children, Kimberlyn (13) and Kade (10), and their beloved Blue Heeler pup, Trip, the Richards have become an energetic and deeply rooted part of the neighborhood.

Both Bret and Roxy are proud members of the Texas A&M Class of 2001. Their paths crossed in the most Aggie way possible—at the Dixie Chicken. “Roxy’s sister and my ‘sister’—a lifelong friend—were both in vet school together and planned a meet up,” Bret recalls. “Roxy saw something she had to have that was not on the Dixie Chicken menu,” he jokes. That chance encounter led to a lifelong partnership grounded in Aggie spirit, service, and family.

Bret went on to earn a B.S. in Agribusiness and a Master’s in Agriculture (Leadership Development), later attending the Missouri Auction School. Roxy pursued her passion for education, earning both her B.S. and Master’s in Education. Their professional journeys took them to Dallas, where Bret launched his career in auctioneering and Roxy began teaching. In 2012, they made the decision to return to Bryan-College Station to raise their family among Aggie traditions and a supportive community.

Roxy recently retired after more than 20 years of teaching in Plano, Frisco, and College Station ISD. Her career spanned special education, 3rd and 5th grade classrooms, and six years as a dyslexia specialist. Her dedication touched countless young lives and continues to inspire her children.

Bret is Co-Owner of Coleman & Patterson Real Estate and Coleman & Patterson Auctioneers, where he helps clients with everything from real estate transactions to marketing farm, ranch, and business assets. He’s also a contract auctioneer, conducting weekly car auctions in Houston and about 30 nonprofit auctions each year. “I talk a lot,” he admits with a laugh, “but I do get paid to do it.”

Their children, Kimber and Kade, are active and adventurous. Both are members of 4-H and participate in the Brazos County Livestock Show with their animal projects. Kade also plays basketball and football, while Kimber shines on the volleyball court, competing with her school team and with BCS Skyline Volleyball on the 14 Royal squad. She also cheers at Wellborn Middle School, keeping the family’s calendar busy and exciting.

Of course, no family story is complete without the dog. Trip, their Blue Heeler, has become something of a neighborhood character. “He spends half his day at our neighbors, the Bells’ house,” Bret laughs. “At this point, we’re co-dog parents.”

The Richards family is woven into the fabric of Indian Lakes. Whether it’s organizing candy caravans for Halloween or simply cruising the neighborhood to admire Christmas lights, they are quick to embrace traditions that bring neighbors together. Halloween, in fact, holds a special place in their hearts. “It’s so fun to see neighbors get excited, support the kids, and create lasting memories,” Bret says.

Their sense of service extends beyond the neighborhood. Kimber and Roxy are members of She Serves, a women’s service organization. Kade contributes through his 4-H service projects. Bret recently completed his term as Coordinator of Leadership Brazos through the BCS Chamber of Commerce and now serves on the Board of the Boys & Girls Club of the Brazos Valley. As an auctioneer, he lends his talents to fundraising galas for groups like MSC OPAS, the 12th Man Foundation, CASA of the Brazos Valley, the Brazos Valley Heart Ball, Scotty’s House, and many others.

Bret has even conducted auctions for major organizations like the Texas Rangers and Portland Trailblazers. Closer to home, he and Roxy created an endowment to support a paid rodeo coach for Texas Aggie Rodeo—an initiative that reflects their shared values of giving back and supporting future generations.

When it comes to enjoying College Station, the Richards family is intentional about supporting local businesses, especially those run by friends and neighbors. From grabbing subs at Jersey Mike’s, cheering on a game with friends at Walk-On’s, or celebrating milestones at The Republic, they enjoy connecting with people behind the places. The reopening of Chicken Oil Company holds a special meaning for them, too, tying back to their Aggie beginnings and personal history.

For the Richards family, life in Indian Lakes is about balance: a deep commitment to family, community, and service, mixed with plenty of fun. “Roxy is the rock and CEO of the family, Kimber keeps us busy, Kade keeps us on our toes, and Trip and I are just happy to be a part of it all,” Bret says with a grin.

Whether it’s leading through service, cheering on their kids at sporting events, or sharing laughter with neighbors, the Richards family is a shining example of what it means to live fully, give generously, and embrace the spirit of Aggieland.