Musician Mod Sun has paid an emotional tribute to his late ex-girlfriend, Sahara Ray, following the model and swimwear designer’s death at the age of 34.
The singer, whose real name is Derek Ryan Smith, shared an Instagram Reel on Wednesday, October 21, featuring Ray interacting with a monarch butterfly. In the video, the butterfly lands on her hand as she gently moves it towards her nose before returning it to her fingers.
Describing the moment as a reflection of Ray’s personality, Mod Sun called her “pure magic” and praised her ability to transform ordinary moments into something artistic and memorable.
Mod Sun Remembers Ray as ‘Pure Magic’
In his tribute, Mod Sun described Ray as someone whose presence could brighten any room.
“This is who Sahara was in this world,” he wrote, adding that she could turn any moment into art and bring vibrancy wherever she went.
The musician also reflected on their personal connection, revealing that they shared the same birthday. He said the coincidence made him feel as though they were somehow sharing the same soul.
Known for songs including Flames, Mod Sun described Ray as “everyone’s muse” and recalled that he had always referred to her as the “ETERNAL IT GIRL”.
Reflecting on their time together, he wrote that being with Ray had made him feel freer than ever before.
“She was my inspiration before, during, + long after we dated. She was a true love of mine,” he said.
He also suggested that Ray saw the world differently from others and described her as someone he believed was too special for this world.
Mod Sun ended his message by expressing his enduring love for Ray and asking her to “save a spot for me in the forest”.
The Couple Dated in 2023
Ray and Mod Sun were romantically linked in 2023, following the musician’s split from Canadian singer Avril Lavigne.
Although their relationship eventually ended, his tribute indicated that Ray continued to hold a special place in his life.
His message also highlighted the personal memories and emotional connection that remained important to him after their separation.
The butterfly video provided a visual focus for the tribute, with Mod Sun using the moment to celebrate Ray’s creativity, personality and distinctive outlook on life.
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Sahara Ray Dies at 34
Ray died in Los Angeles on October 18 at the age of 34, her family confirmed.
In a statement shared with TMZ, her family said she had passed away in a hospital surrounded by loved ones. Her official cause of death has not been confirmed.
Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from family members, friends and people who knew her personally.
Ray had welcomed her daughter, Snow, in January and shared glimpses of her early experiences as a mother on social media. Her death came less than a year after the birth of her first child.
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Model Founded Sahara Ray Swim
Beyond her personal life, Ray was known for her modelling career and entrepreneurial work in the fashion industry.
She founded her swimwear brand, Sahara Ray Swim, in 2014, establishing a business alongside her work as a model.
She had also attracted public attention through reported links to celebrities including Justin Bieber and Cody Simpson.
In the days following her death, family and friends have shared messages remembering her personality, creativity and influence on those around her.
Her younger sister, Ruby Ray, remembered her as a vibrant and loving person, while her mother, Gretchen Gia Bach, has also expressed her grief online.
Tributes Highlight Her Lasting Impact
As tributes continue to emerge, Mod Sun’s message has offered a deeply personal account of the relationship he shared with Ray.
His recollections focused on her creativity, the freedom he felt around her and the inspiration she continued to provide even after their relationship ended.
While Ray’s death has left family and friends mourning her loss, the messages shared in recent days have highlighted the lasting memories she created and the impact she had on the people closest to her.
