Rose A. Matthews

1945 - 2025

Rose Ann (Rish) Matthews, 80, of Central City, Somerset County, passed away Dec. 9, 2025, at her home. Born July 28, 1945, in Greensburg, she was the daughter of Joseph and Virginia (Yagodzinski) Rish. Also preceded in death by sister, Helen Biondi and her husband, Frank Biondi. Survived by her husband of 57 years, James A. Matthews; sisters-in-law, Thelma Matthews, Connie (John) Altman, and Linda (Dan) White; brother-in-law Ed (Linda) Matthews; numerous nieces and nephews, including Jennifer (John) Mabold and Kevin Biondi; lifelong friend Eleanor (Lubinsky) Stewart; special friend, Josephine Smart; and Rose's pet cat, Missy. Rose grew up in Irwin and was a 1963 graduate of Norwin High School, where she was a majorette. She was a retired employee for Kennametal Inc. in Latrobe, where she was employed for 35 years. Hired as a secretary in the Purchasing Department, she eventually moved up to buyer. Rose was an avid golfer, and she and Jim were members of the Northwinds Golf Course for over 25 years. She won the Northwinds Ladies Golf Championship in 1997. In addition to golf, she loved traveling. She and Jim visited Germany, the Netherlands, Greece, Turkey, and many states in the U.S. Hawaii was a favorite destination, which they visited several times. Rose and Jim owned a 25-acre farm, raising sheep, goats, chickens, and ducks. They also adopted many stray dogs and cats. She had a great love of animals and treated them all with heartfelt care. She also drove farm tractors, helped make hay, and gladly helped with other outdoor chores. Rose was a good homemaker and enjoyed decorating for holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. Socializing with family and friends was something she always looked forward to doing. The family would like to thank the staff of Interim Hospice for the kindness and care provided for Rose Ann. "Rosie, you were the love of my life, the light of my life, and the wind beneath my wings. Rest in peace" Jim. Viewing from 3 to 6 p.m., Friday, at HOFFMAN FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES INC., 409 Main St., Boswell, where a service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, with Rev. Fr. Aron Maghsoudi presiding. Donations in Rose Ann's memory may be sent to the Humane Society of Somerset County, PO Box 182, Somerset, PA 15501. To express condolences, order flowers, or plant a memorial tree, visit HoffmanFuneralHomes.com.