Raymond Harper, widely known as Rolling Ray, the outspoken influencer and reality TV star, passed away at the age of 28, just one day before his birthday on September 5, 2025. His death was confirmed through emotional posts by his mother, Shazola Nay, and his cousin on Facebook, sparking an outpouring of grief among fans and family across social media platforms. Known for his bold personality and distinctive style, Rolling Ray rose to fame on MTV’s Catfish: Trolls in 2018 and later appeared on shows such as Divorce Court and Bobby I Love U, Purrr. His presence extended beyond television, becoming a viral sensation for popularizing the phrase “purr” and serving as a voice for the LGBTQ+, Black, and disabled communities.

Rolling Ray's personality was defined by his humor, resilience, and unapologetic authenticity. As a wheelchair user, he seamlessly incorporated his disability into his public persona, inspiring many by breaking stereotypes around disability representation. Over the years, he established a dedicated fanbase for his candid videos, commentary on relationships, lifestyle, and pop culture. Despite periods of reduced activity on social media in recent years, his influence remained strong, and the news of his passing left his followers heartbroken, flooding platforms with tributes celebrating his life and legacy.

Throughout his life, Rolling Ray battled severe health challenges yet consistently projected strength and determination. His struggles included a severe fire accident in 2021, when his wig caught fire causing serious burns, and hospitalizations due to COVID-19 complications in 2022 that left him in a coma. More recently, in 2024, he faced pneumonia and a blood infection, which led to critical care with dangerously low oxygen levels. Despite these hardships, Rolling Ray frequently responded to rumors of his death with defiant humor, emphasizing his survival and perseverance. His last public updates revealed an honest admission that he did not expect to live long but remained grateful for the care and support he received.

The declarations of his passing by family members conveyed deep sorrow and a call for prayers from his followers as they prepared to lay him to rest. Fans and fellow creators mourned a unique cultural figure whose sharp wit, dramatic flair, and genuine self-expression left an undeniable mark on social media and reality TV. Rolling Ray’s legacy lives on in the communities he empowered, through his iconic catchphrases, infectious laugh, and the resilient spirit that defined his journey.