Ronda

Gaston

Ronda Marie Gaston, 75, of West Des Moines, Iowa, passed away on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at MercyOne in Des Moines, Iowa. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, November 29, 2026, from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. at the West Des Moines Community Center, located at 217 5th Street in West Des Moines. A private family burial will take place at a later date.

Ronda was born on July 7, 1951, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Travis and Vivian (Brown) Smith. She was raised in Des Moines and graduated from Valley High School. After graduation, she began her working career at Urban Suburban Realty before joining Bankers Life, which later became Principal Financial. In 1982, Ronda married the love of her life, James “Dick” Gaston, and together they made their home in West Des Moines. Ronda devoted 44 years of dedicated service to Principal Financial before retiring in 2014, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and lasting friendships.

Above all, Ronda treasured her family and the time they shared. She also had a special place in her heart for her beloved dogs. In her free time, she enjoyed getting lost in a good book, taking relaxing pontoon rides along the Des Moines River, spending time at Birdland Marina, camping, and making memories with her coworkers and friends. Whether surrounded by family, enjoying the outdoors, or simply sharing time with those she loved, Ronda found happiness in life's simple pleasures.

Those left to cherish Ronda's memory include her loving husband, Dick Gaston; her step-children, Angela Gaston and Corrie (Doug) Nelson; her step-grandchildren, Nathan Herbold and Sadie Nelson; her sister, Sandy (Jim) Lyons; her brother, Clayton (Pam) Smith; and those she cared for as her own children, even though they were not her biological children, Lori and Robby Speck.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Travis and Vivian Smith.

Ronda will be lovingly remembered for the life she lived, the relationships she cherished, and the many memories she leaves behind. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Hendersons Funeral & Cremation Care has been entrusted with the care of Ronda and her family.