Shakeem "Ham" Peterson, affectionately known as "Poody" by his family and friends, passed away on January 1, 2025 Moses Cone Hospital, Greensboro , North Carolina. He was born on August 8, 1995 to his father Robert Guthrie and mother Lataisha Peterson.

Shakeem was educated in Thomasville City Schools and Lexington City Schools, where he excelled in both football and basketball. He graduated from Lexington Senior High School in 2014 and went on to attend North Carolina A&T State University.

Shakeem, also known as Ham Newton in the music world, was an up and coming rap artist under his music label BigMuzik Kartel Inc. He was also a talented artist and writer, showcasing his creativity in various forms. Shakeem worked at the Greensboro Coliseum, where his vibrant personality and infectious smile brightened the lives of those around him.

Shakeem had a deep love for his family and will be remembered as a loving son, a cherished sibling, and a treasured friend. He is survived by his partner Tanisha Giles and was preceded in death by his grandmother, Carolyn Peterson.

Shakeem leaves to cherish his loving memory to his parents, siblings Nykima Peterson, Jhamien Peterson-Edwards, Jhamirah Edwards, Teniylah Peterson, Journee Temoney, Camorah Staggers, Caprice Howard, Robert Guthrie, Jr., Leazane Guthrie, Natecia Pittman, Terrell Cloud, Trelane Guthrie, Zachary Guthrie, Reyjen Royston; his paternal Grandmother Rose Marie Guthrie; God-Grandmother Jennifer Green; God-Parents Rev. Stacey and Sandra Young ; God-sister Ayssa Woodberry; nephew Vincent Legrand; niece Harmony Wilson; God-nephew Kamar “KJ” Welch; a special friends From The Outsiders and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, family and friends.

Shakeem's life was cut short, but his legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rest in peace, Shakeem "Ham" Peterson.