Shongaia Onye Curry

Shongaia Onye “Peanut” Curry, age 40, of Detroit, Michigan, passed away on February 20, 2026.

Born on August 13, 1985, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to her loving mother, Deloris Curry, and her late father, Tyriq Reed. Shongaia brought light, laughter, and music into the world from the very beginning. A proud Christian, she carried her faith in her heart and shared kindness generously with everyone she met.

Affectionately known as “Peanut,” Shongaia was truly one of a kind — bubbly, vibrant, and full of infectious energy. Her beautiful spirit, warm smile, and loving, caring heart made people feel welcomed, and loved. She had a special gift for lifting others up and turning ordinary moments into joyful memories.

Music was her passion and her language of love. Shongaia loved everything about music — from singing and dancing to encouraging and mentoring others as they pursued their own musical dreams. Whether she was performing, cheering someone on, or simply enjoying a favorite song, music was always at the center of her world.

Shongaia graduated from Sexton High School in Lansing, Michigan, in 2003 and went on to earn her degree from Christopher Newport University in Newport News, Virginia, in 2008. She moved through life with determination, creativity, and an open heart, always seeking new ways to grow and uplift others.

After college, she relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where she interned with Interscope Records under the direction of Polow da Don, pursuing her dream of becoming a recording artist. During her time there, she discovered a passion for marketing and expanded her talents into the multi media world, including sports and entertainment. She was especially proud of the work she did supporting several first round draft picks.

Shongaia’s entrepreneurial spirit was vibrant and unwavering. She founded The Onye Group, a nonprofit rooted in service, and later created Dreamhe R, an organization dedicated to empowering young girls. Even as she faced illness, she continued to build and create, launching her online boutique, E8THIRTHEEN, with the same vision and drive that shaped every chapter of her life.

In 2023, Shongaia rededicated her life to Christ and was baptized in Jackson, Michigan, embracing her faith with renewed purpose and devotion.

Above all, she was a devoted and loving mother to her cherished son, Xavier A. Robinson, who was the pride and joy of her life. She poured her love, strength, and dreams into him, nurturing his spirit with the same determination and tenderness that defined her own journey. Everything she pursued—every risk she took, every door she opened—was done with him in mind. Her legacy lives on through Xavier, in his resilience, his kindness, and the bright future she worked tirelessly to help him build.

Shongaia is survived by her loving mother, Deloris Curry; her beloved son, Xavier A. Robinson; her two sisters, Terrilynn M. Carlton (Kea O. Carlton) of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Serena R. Curry of Washington, DC; her niece, Keauna N. Carlton of Charlotte, North Carolina; and her nephews, Rodney C. Middlebrooks of Washington, DC, and Keaun N. Carlton of Houston, Texas.

She also leaves behind a host of close, loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends with whom she shared deep bonds and countless treasured memories. Among those who held a special place in her heart were Arthur R. Branner and Latisha K. McCray, both of whom she loved as cousins and embraced as an honorary brother and sister. She was also deeply connected to her beloved cousins DeMarcus Rush and Ny’Ree K. Vick—with Ny’Ree sharing a tender, cherished bond with her, much like a beloved little sister, marked by closeness, joy, and unwavering affection.

Shongaia was preceded in death by her beloved grandmother, Lois B. McCray, whose steady love and gentle wisdom helped shape the woman she became. Lois poured into her with encouragement, faith, and unwavering support. The bond they shared remained a guiding light throughout Shongaia’s life, and her grandmother’s influence could be felt in the way she loved, created, and uplifted others.

Though her time on earth was far too short, Shongaia lived fully, loved deeply, and gave freely of herself. Her laughter, her music, her radiant energy, and her unwavering love will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites contributions to a fund supporting her beloved son, Xavier A. Robinson, as he prepares for the next chapter of his life. Your kindness will help carry forward the love and opportunity Shongaia always poured into him. Donations may be made via CashApp at $DelorisCurry. Please designate “for Xavier” in the notes section.

Her life was a gift. Her memory is a blessing. Her spirit will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her.