Model Sahara Ray Dies at 34, Just Months After Giving Birth to Baby Girl
Australian model and swimwear designer Sahara Ray has died at the age of 34, just months after welcoming her first child, a baby girl named Snow. Her family confirmed the heartbreaking news, revealing that she passed away in hospital on October 18, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. <Cite refs={[“turn302966search3″,”turn302966search5”]}/>
“She was so loved,” her family shared in a statement, as tributes began pouring in for the model, who had built a successful career in fashion and social media.
Ray welcomed her daughter in January 2026 and often shared glimpses of her new life as a mother online. In one of her final Instagram posts, she shared photos of baby Snow, referring to her little girl as “my whole heart.” The touching message has taken on a heartbreaking meaning following the news of her death. <Cite refs={[“turn302966search4″,”turn302966search5”]}/>
Born in Australia, Sahara was the daughter of professional surfer Tony Ray. She rose to prominence as a model and later launched her own swimwear label, Sahara Ray Swim, establishing herself in the fashion industry. She also attracted international attention in 2016 after being linked to pop star Justin Bieber. <Cite refs={[“turn302966search3″,”turn302966search5”]}/>
Beyond her career, Ray had faced significant personal challenges. In 2024, she revealed that she had been diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare neurological condition that can cause muscle weakness and paralysis. She spoke openly about how the illness affected her mobility and described relying on a wheelchair and walker during her recovery. <Cite refs={[“turn302966search7″,”turn302966search10”]}/>
Following the announcement of her death, friends and fellow models shared emotional tributes, remembering her as a vibrant, kind and unforgettable person. Her sister Ruby also paid tribute to her, describing her as an extraordinary soul whose absence had left a profound void in the lives of those who loved her. <Cite refs={[“turn302966search3″,”turn302966search5”]}/>
The news of Ray’s death has left many saddened, particularly because she had only recently begun a new chapter in her life as a mother. Her daughter Snow remains at the centre of the family’s grief as loved ones remember Sahara and the life she shared with those closest to her.
The cause of death has not been officially disclosed, and no confirmed information has established whether her previous health condition was connected to her passing. <Cite refs={[“turn302966search0″,”turn302966search5”]}/>