NEW HAVEN - Cherokee Rowena Ann Matthews, 36, of New Haven, departed her earthly life on March 29, 2016. Cherokee was born in Kingstree, SC to the late Flora Ann Matthews and Ricki Matthews. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter Chirese Hoskie of New Haven, a loving fiancé Eric Hoffler, two sisters April (Solomon) Matthews, and Aimee Shaw of New Haven. A loving aunt Ruby Harrison of Kingstree, SC, nieces Arnasia, Somiyah and Malaysia of New Haven, nephews Justin and Kylique, and a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends. Cherokee was a long time resident of New Haven where she attended New Haven Public Schools. She also attended Stone Academy where she obtained a degree in Medical Billing. She was well rounded with computers and technology. She was a faithful long time member of Deliverance Temple Pentecostal Church in New Haven. In addition to her biological parents, Cherokee was predeceased by a husband Harvey Hoskie, a brother Leroy McKnight and loving parents Ella Mae Shaw, and Willie D. Shaw. The Waterbury Funeral Home, part of CT Life Tributes Bailey Family Funeral Homes, has been entrusted with Cherokee's arrangements. Friends and family may call from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. on Friday April 8, 2016 at the Deliverance Temple Church, 584 Congress Ave. New Haven, CT. A funeral service will immediately follow at the church. Interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in New Haven, CT.