Demetrius Shontay

Demetrius Shontay “Tay” Thomas, born January 2, 1990, in Dothan, AL, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2023, in Enterprise, AL. Tay, known to her friends and family for her loving nature, selflessness, and creativity, leaves a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know her.

Tay is preceded in death by her mother, Tina Thomas, her Mama D-Dianne Daniels, and her grandmothers Dorothy Thomas and Jeanette Underwood. Tay is survived by her father, Donald Peoples, her siblings, Cornelius Thomas, Trez Thomas, Marcus Daniels, and Quina Daniels. From an early age, Tay’s sprightly spirit and comical ways were evident. She walked to the beat of her own drum!

As a mother, Tay was known for her loving devotion to her daughter, Te'Ona Harmonie Cummings. Always putting her daughter’s needs above her own, Tay worked tirelessly trying to provide a happy and comfortable life for her. Her selfless love was evident in her interactions with her family, a reassuring constant even through life's ups and downs.

Tay was employed in customer service, which allowed her to utilize her skills of being a people person. She knew and could talk to just about anyone. Irrespective of the challenges she encountered, she remained steadfast and dedicated, always keen to persevere.

In addition to her unconditional devotion to her family, Tay found joy in simple pleasures. She loved music deeply, often using it as a refuge to relax and recoup energy. Her culinary skills were something the family always looked forward to, especially her baking. When family gathered around homecooked meals, it was one of her utmost joys, and those occasions brought warmth and comfort to everyone around her.

A woman who proved, time and time again, that she could accomplish anything she set her mind to, Tay led a life fueled by love and dedication, selflessness. She accepted Jesus Christ into her life in 2020. Despite the obstacles she faced, she always radiated positivity, inspiring those around her with her determined spirit.

In addition to her father, daughter, and siblings, eight stepbrothers and two stepsisters, Tay is also survived by multiple aunts and uncles, and a host of cousins. Her cherished friends, Aida Pena and Tyra George, and a very special honorary grandfather LaDon Ralls. Their bonds, formed over mutual respect and shared experiences, were a source of immense joy and support for Tay. They will continue to uphold her memory, cherishing the beautiful moments they shared with her.

The loss of Shontay Thomas has left an irreplaceable void in our hearts. Though she may be gone from our sight, her loving character, bright smile, and endless creativity will continue to influence and inspire us in countless ways. We celebrate her life by embodying the values she held dear - love, unwavering dedication, and the courage to face any challenge with grace. Her colorful spirit will forever resonate within us. Although we mourn her passing, we know that her love and legacy will endure in the memories we carry and the lives she touched.

A celebration of Tay's life will be held at 11 am Saturday, July 15, 2023 in Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. She will be laid to rest in Gates of Heaven Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends one hour prior to the ceremony at the funeral home.

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604