Musician Mod Sun has shared an emotional tribute to Sahara Ray, remembering the late model and swimwear designer for her creativity, free spirit and unforgettable personality. His message comes days after Ray died at the age of 34.
In a social media post shared on October 21, the singer reflected on their past relationship and the special connection they maintained. He also recalled how Ray inspired him during their time together and continued to influence his life after their breakup.
Ray’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from friends, family members and followers. The Australian model had also recently entered a new chapter of her life after welcoming her daughter, Snow, in January 2026.
Mod Sun Remembers Sahara Ray’s Creative Spirit
Mod Sun, whose real name is Derek Ryan Smith, paid tribute to Ray through an Instagram post featuring a video of her interacting with a monarch butterfly.
He described her as someone who brought creativity and energy into everyday moments. In his message, the musician also recalled her ability to make ordinary experiences feel special.
The tribute offered a personal look at their relationship beyond the headlines. Rather than focusing only on their past romance, Sun highlighted Ray’s individuality, artistic nature and the impression she left on people around her.
He also remembered her as a source of inspiration whose influence continued long after their relationship ended.
The Couple Shared a Special Connection
Mod Sun and Sahara Ray dated in 2023, following his split from singer Avril Lavigne.
During his tribute, Sun reflected on the experiences they shared and the connection that remained meaningful to him. He mentioned trips to Hawaii, Minnesota and Big Sur, California, as important parts of their time together.
He also expressed how comfortable and free he felt when they were together.
Sun’s message made clear that Ray held a lasting place in his life. He remembered her not only as a former partner but also as someone who encouraged him to see the world differently.
His words have added to the tributes being shared following the model’s death.
Sahara Ray Was Known for Modeling and Swimwear Design
Beyond her personal relationships, Sahara Ray built a career as a model and entrepreneur.
She developed a strong social media presence and launched her own swimwear label, Sahara Ray Swim. Through her online platforms, she shared modeling photographs, fashion looks and glimpses of her everyday life.
Her public image often reflected her interest in fashion, travel and the outdoors. She also documented moments from her professional work and personal experiences, allowing followers to connect with different sides of her life.
Ray was the daughter of Australian professional surfer Tony Ray. She also attracted public attention in 2016 after being photographed vacationing in Hawaii with Justin Bieber.
However, her modeling career and swimwear business remained important parts of her professional identity.
Sahara Ray’s Death Confirmed by Her Family
Ray’s family confirmed her death in a statement to TMZ on October 19, 2026.
According to the statement, she died at a hospital while surrounded by family members. Her loved ones also emphasized how deeply she was loved.
She was 34 years old.
As of the latest reports cited in this article, her official cause of death had not been confirmed. Therefore, claims about the circumstances surrounding her passing should be treated cautiously until reliable confirmation becomes available.
Ray had previously spoken publicly about health challenges following a serious accident. However, no confirmed information establishes a connection between those earlier health issues and her death.
Sahara Ray Had Recently Become a Mother
Ray’s death came only months after she welcomed her daughter, Snow, in January 2026.
During her pregnancy and early months of motherhood, she shared personal moments with her followers. Her posts offered glimpses into a significant period of change in her life.
In one Mother’s Day message, Ray expressed her love for her daughter and acknowledged mothers celebrating the occasion.
She also shared photographs of Snow on social media, showing how important motherhood had become to her.
These memories have added another emotional dimension to the tributes following her death. Her daughter was born less than a year before Ray passed away.
Friends and Loved Ones Share Their Grief
Mod Sun was not the only person to remember Ray publicly.
Her friend Sabrina Zada also shared an emotional message following the model’s death. She reflected on their friendship and expressed disbelief that someone she described as beautiful, kind and funny was gone.
Zada’s words highlighted the personal impact of Ray’s passing on those who knew her beyond her public image.
Together, the tributes from friends and former partners offer glimpses into the relationships Ray built throughout her life.
While her work in modeling and fashion introduced her to a wider audience, these personal messages focus on the qualities that made her memorable to the people closest to her.
Mod Sun’s Tribute Celebrates Sahara Ray’s Lasting Legacy
Mod Sun’s tribute has become one of the personal remembrances shared following Sahara Ray’s death.
His message reflects the lasting influence of their relationship and his appreciation for her creativity, personality and approach to life.
Ray leaves behind memories connected to her modeling career, swimwear business and life as a new mother. As friends and family continue to mourn her loss, their tributes are helping preserve memories of the person they knew.
Her death at 34 has left loved ones grieving, while the circumstances surrounding her passing remain unconfirmed in the latest reports cited here.