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Mod Sun paid a tender online tribute to his late ex, Sahara Ray, sharing a short Instagram Reel that captured the model’s whimsical spirit. The clip — and his accompanying words — stirred emotion across social feeds as fans and friends reacted to the sudden loss.
What Mod Sun posted about Sahara Ray
Derek Ryan Smith, known professionally as Mod Sun, posted a brief video showing Ray with a monarch butterfly perched on her hand. In the footage she gently moved the insect from finger to nose and back, smiling as it fluttered.
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In his caption, Mod Sun described her as “pure magic” and referred to her as a deep romantic presence in his life. He wrote that being with her felt freeing and that she was a source of inspiration long after their relationship ended.
How the Reel highlighted their bond
He noted a special connection: they shared a birthday, a detail he said made their relationship feel soul-linked. Mod Sun also called her everyone’s muse and used the phrase “ETERNAL IT GIRL” to convey her lasting impact on those around her.
Circumstances surrounding Ray’s death
Sahara Ray died in Los Angeles at age 34. Reports say she was placed on life support and later taken off by family members.
Official authorities have not released a confirmed cause of death. Media sources have cited a person close to Ray who suggested an apparent fentanyl overdose, but that detail remains unverified by investigators.
Cause of death: not officially confirmed.
Family, child and past relationships
Ray welcomed her first child, a daughter named Snow, in January. The baby’s father has been identified in reports as Michael Bradley Dow.
- Parents: Tony Ray (surfer) and Gretchen Gia Bach (real estate agent).
- Notable past relationships: Justin Bieber and Cody Simpson have been publicly linked to Ray.
Voices from her family
Her younger sister, Ruby, described Sahara as a “force of nature,” noting the warmth and exuberance she brought to people’s lives. Family reactions emphasize how vivid her personality was to those closest to her.
Public reaction and social media response
Fans and fellow artists reacted to Mod Sun’s Reel and other tributes. Comments on social platforms reflected shock, grief, and memories of Ray’s creativity and free-spirited style.
- Many highlighted the butterfly clip as emblematic of her ethereal image.
- Supporters called for privacy and sensitivity for the family during this time.
