Carina Nichole Cheeks entered this world on November 29, 1977, in Denver, Colorado, the cherished second child of Paula and Harold Cheeks. From the start, Carina’s radiant spirit illuminated the lives of those around her, weaving a tapestry of love and joy that would define her journey. Growing up amidst the warm embrace of her sisters—Arzella Jarmon, Malika Cheeks, and Tamara Cheeks—she nurtured bonds of sisterhood that stood as pillars throughout her life.

As a child, Carina’s vibrant soul found refuge in the pews of Bethlehem Church, where she sat eagerly at the front, absorbing the inspiring words of Pastor Miles and First Lady Thelma Miles. Her heartfelt invitations—"Yes Lord, praise Him"—echoed the faith that guided her, while her playful sermons in the family backyard hinted at a lifelong devotion to creativity and expression. In quiet moments, her flute sang soft melodies in the dark, harmonizing with the tunes cherished by Oprah, revealing early glimpses of a boundless imagination.

Carina’s academic path led her from Suitland High School’s graduating class of 1996 to TESST College of Technology, where she celebrated her graduation in 2005. With an extraordinary gift for storytelling, she authored and self-published “Vahudrick the Blood Gift: A Natural Tale” under the pen name C.N. Cheeks, sharing her unique voice with the world. Her enterprising spirit birthed Bags for Me, an online business reflecting her creative drive and independence.

Though she never bore children, Carina’s heart overflowed with maternal tenderness for her beloved companions—Goldie, Kapona, Hercules, and Peanut—her treasured "fur kids." Alongside her sister, she embraced the responsibility of caring for three military children during their family members’ overseas service, a testament to her unwavering compassion and strength.

Her passions painted a vivid portrait of a life well-lived: writing that stirred imagination, singing that enlivened spirits, swimming that refreshed her soul, acting that told stories beyond words, and the delight in movies and laughter that brought light to every room. With dear friends Antiontte and Trecie, Carina embarked on joyous journeys between Maryland and New York, creating memories rich with laughter and camaraderie.

Affectionately known as “Ms. CC,” Carina possessed the rare gift of making every person she met feel seen and cherished. Her warm voice and caring presence were beacons of comfort and joy, even amid life’s trials. Her smile—bright and infectious—and her steadfast faith left an indelible imprint on all fortunate enough to know her.

Carina Nichole Cheeks leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and light—a radiant spirit whose echo will forever grace the hearts of those she touched.

Carina is lovingly remembered by her parents, Paula R. Cheeks and Harold S. Cheeks; her devoted sisters; her aunts Laura Huling, Joyce Wright, Antoinette Cheeks, Beverly Brent, Amelia Cheeks, Mary Miles, and Vickie Miles; and her uncles Henery James III, Michael Wright, David Miles, Joseph Miles, Walter Huling, Terrie Cheeks, and Charles Jones. She also rests in the loving memory of grandparents Elect Lady Thelma Miles, Pastor Henry Miles, Willie Lee Jones of South Carolina, and Harold Cheeks Sr., as well as aunts Phyllis Diane Campbell, Jacquelin Miles, Jacquelin Sharpe, uncle Donald Ray Wright, and a multitude of cousins, family, and friends.