Ronald Fred Keyworth

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved friend and family member, Ronald F. Keyworth, Jr.

Ronald "Ron" Keyworth Jr.'s Story
1950 - 2026
Age 75

Ronald "Ron" Keyworth, Jr. passed away peacefully on March 13, 2026 in Albuquerque, New Mexico at the age of 75. Born on December 23, 1950 in Portales, New Mexico, Ron lived a life marked by service, dedication, and love for his family and community.

Ron grew up in Alamogordo before moving to Ventura, California where his journey of service began when he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1969. During his time in the Navy, he served honorably and earned several commendations, including the Vietnam Service Medal with one bronze star and a meritorious unit commendation. His last duty assignment was aboard the USS Okinawa in 1973. This chapter of his life instilled in him a deep sense of duty and commitment that would guide him throughout his career and personal endeavors.

After his military service, Ron settled in Albuquerque and married his beloved wife, Karen, and they shared 45 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and mutual devotion. She remained his constant companion throughout every chapter of his life. Together, they and their two children, Nicole and Nathan, lived in the East Mountain area and became active members of their community by volunteering with the Bernalillo County Fire Department for five years before Ron transitioned from volunteer work to a professional firefighting career. Over the years, he rose through the ranks with unwavering dedication and eventually retired as Deputy Chief of Operations in 2011. During his tenure, he also served as president of IAFF 244 (International Association of Fire Fighters), demonstrating his leadership and commitment to supporting his fellow firefighters.

Ron's faith was a cornerstone of his life. He found spiritual strength and fellowship at Mountain Christian Church in Cedar Crest. His quiet, steady guidance and kindness left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

Beyond his professional achievements and faith-based commitments, Ron cherished time spent with family and friends. He had a passion for woodworking, off-road riding on his yellow Canam, and camping-hobbieas that reflected his love for the outdoors, creativity, and adventure. These pursuits brought joy to both him and those who shared these moments with him, especially in Hope, Arizona, where he wintered for several years.

Ron is lovingly remembered by his family: daughter, Nicole Barker and her husband Micah; son, Nathan Deterding and his wife Shannon, all of whom appreciated Ron's steady guidance, kindness, and presence in their lives. Ron took immense pride in his grandchildren, Bodie Trnka and wife, Rachel, Tristan Barker, Emily Barker, Katie Barker, Cache Deterding, Hannah Deterding, and Ava Deterding; and great-grandsons, Quincy and Prewitt. Other family include his sister, Rhonda Beck and husband Steve; sister-in-law, Judith Gillham and husband Kel; sister-in-law, Janet Griego and husband Rosendo; brother-in-law, Ken Garber; and nieces, nephews and cousins. His legacy lives on through them as well as through the countless lives he touched during his lifetime.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Wanda June Keyworth and Ronald Keyworth Sr.; as well as his brother, Terry Keyworth.

Ron was known for his humble spirit, quiet humor, and dependable nature. His legacy of service, faith, craftsmanship, integrity, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. May his life serve as an enduring example of selflessness, strength, and devotion to family and community.

We invite all who knew and loved him to join us in celebrating a life so beautifully lived and a soul so deeply missed at a Memorial Service to be held at a later date at Mountain Christian Church, 12242 NM 14, Cedar Crest, NM, and to honor his military career at the Santa Fe National Cemetery, 501 N. Guadalupe St, Santa Fe, NM.