William Matthew "Matt" Cherkas, III
June 4, 1957 ~ February 16, 2026
Born in: Glen Burnie, MD
Resided in: Rocky Mount, NC
ROCKY MOUNT – William Matthew “Matt” Cherkas, III, age 68, passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026. Born in Glen Burnie, MD on June 4, 1957, he was the son of the late William Matthew Cherkas, Jr. and Yuma Liles Cherkas. He was also preceded in death by his wife, Faye House Cherkas; and his brother, Craig Alexander Cherkas.
A graduate of Louisburg College and NC State University. Matt was a longtime resident of Raleigh. After relocating to Rocky Mount, he was employed with Tri-County Industries and, most recently, Davenport Autopark.
Matt is survived by his sister, Lisa Cherkas Nelson; his nephew and niece, Graham Nelson (Hannah) and Paige Nelson Grimball (Heyward) and their children.
A private Inurnment Service will be held at Elmwood Cemetery in Oxford with Father Les Carpenter officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Matt’s memory to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church Outreach Programs, 301 S. Circle Drive, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 or the charity of your choice.
Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.
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Charities
The family greatly appreciates donations made to these charities in William Matthew "Matt" Cherkas, III 's name.
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church Outreach Programs
301 S. Circle Drive
Rocky Mount,
NC
27804
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I am so sad to hear of Matt’s passing. I had the pleasure of working with him at Tri County Industries. When I interviewed him I just knew he was a good guy! Matt was such a dedicated employee. He went above and beyond for the employees he supervised. After my retirement I always enjoyed catching up with him when I took my car in for service at Davenport. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you for your kind remembrance, Brenda. Matt very much enjoyed his time at Tri County and felt your retirement came too soon. I’m glad to know you were still able to visit.
Lisa
I am so sorry for your loss, Matt was an amazing person and I was very luck to get the chance to call him my friend. Please know if there is anything you or your family may need just ask.
With our deepest sympathy,
Margie and family
Matt saved some of the cute cards from your family, Margie. Thank you for your friendship to him – Lisa