Romonda Lou Ballard

Romonda Goodwin Ballard passed away on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at the age of 90.

Romonda was born November 21, 1935 in Chillicothe, Texas to Maude and Curtis Goodwin. She married her high school sweetheart, George Demere in Water Valley, Texas.

A graduate of Texas Tech University, Romonda earned a degree in home economics and spent many years teaching in Sterling City. Teaching suited her well because Romonda loved people. She really never met a stranger. She could walk into a room knowing no one and within minutes be visiting and laughing as though she had known them for years. People were naturally drawn to her warmth and genuine interest in others.

Romonda was a wonderful bridge player and a talented pianist, but some of her greatest gifts could not be taught. She had a remarkable way of making people feel welcome and of finding joy in conversation, connection, and friendship.

In 2018 she moved from the Concho Valley to Amarillo to be closer to family. She made her home at The Craig, which she lovingly, and fittingly, called her, “castle.”

Romonda was preceded in death by her parents, Curtis and Maude Goodwin, and brother Don Wallace Goodwin.

She is survived by her sons, Roger Dale “Boots” Demere of Canyon, Texas and Kerry Don “Dusty” Demere and wife Jana of Lake Tanglewood, Texas.

Romonda was a dearly loved grandmother to Shanna Jones and husband Chris of Amarillo, Texas; Krysta Turner and husband Josh of Ft Davis, Texas; Chase Demere of Brady, Texas; and Codi Bowker and husband Jackson of Tulsa, Oklahoma.

She was blessed to be a great grandmother to Leighton Demere, Cainen Demere and Whitson Jones.

Romonda carried a lifetime of love, grace, strength and wisdom in her heart. Though she may be gone from our sight the love she gave us will never leave.

Memorial services will be at 2:00 PM, Saturday, August 22, 2026 at The Craig, 5500 SW 9th Ave. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.