Mod Sun pays emotional tribute to late ex-girlfriend Sahara Ray: 'She was a true love of mine'

Musician Mod Sun, whose real name is Derek Ryan Smith, has paid an emotional tribute to his late ex-girlfriend, model and swimwear designer Sahara Ray, following her death at the age of 34 on October 18 in Los Angeles. Mod Sun shared an Instagram Reel on October 21, remembering Ray as "pure magic," "everyone's muse," and "a true love of mine," highlighting their unique connection, including having the same birthday. He described her as someone who saw life differently and was "just too special for this world," wishing her to "save a spot for me in the forest." Ray's family confirmed her passing at a hospital surrounded by loved ones, though the official cause of death has not been revealed. Her death comes less than a year after she welcomed her daughter, Snow, and she was also known for her swimwear brand, Sahara Ray Swim, and past reported links to Justin Bieber and Cody Simpson. Tributes from family and friends, including her sister Ruby Ray and mother Gretchen Gia Bach, continue to emerge, celebrating her personality and creative impact.