Raymond Harper, better known by his online persona Rolling Ray, has died at the age of 28, just days before his birthday.
The influencer and reality TV personality, who called himself “the most famous boy inna wheelchair,” rose to prominence through viral social media moments and appearances on MTV’s Catfish: Trolls, Divorce Court, and the Zeus Network dating series Bobby I Love You, Purrr.
His mother, Sazola Nay, confirmed the heartbreaking news in an emotional Facebook post. “It is with a heavy, heavy heart that I let you know that my son Ray Ray (@Iamrollingray) has gone home to be with the Lord. I thank everyone who has called or texted. This is going to be a long road.”
The TV star's cause of death has not yet been made public. According to the Express, his passing comes just months after he was rushed into intensive care, battling pneumonia and a blood infection when his breathing dropped.
Harper lived with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 3, a rare genetic neuromuscular disease that causes progressive muscle deterioration and left him reliant on a wheelchair.
Speaking about his health in the past, he reflected: “At first they said I was going to die at 14 years old, years ago. The doctor was wrong, they told my mom that I was going to die at 14, but you know, science changed and doctors are not always right.”
Friends, collaborators, and fans have been left shattered by the news and are sharing tributes to the star.
One user wrote: "So sad to hear the passing of Rolling Ray. So funny and kind, I have so many funny moments and convos I’ll always remember RIP," while another penned: "Rolling Ray wasn’t just a meme. He was a disability advocate and was on the frontlines protesting against police brutality in the Summer of 2020. Hilarious, smart, and courageous. Will continue to yell 'I love the traiiinnnn' any chance I get. RIP"
The Zeus Network, which hosted several of Harper’s shows, also paid tribute. “Gone way too soon,” the network posted on Instagram. “Your Laughter, Light, & Loving Spirit will Live on FOREVER...You were Unapologetically & Authentically your TRUEST Self. From your ZEUS Fam, we Love, Thank, & will Miss you Always!"
Music star Cardi B shared a post on X, which read: "Rolling Ray was a menace lmaoo… but he changed soo much and became so positive. I know that soul made it to heaven…You will truly be missed BIG PURRRR!!!"
Screenwriter Angel Williams remembered him as a “real friend,” writing: “So heart broken. Omg was just talking to You a few weeks ago. You was always rooting for me. Even gave you sneak peeks of my scripts because you loved them so bad! You couldn't wait to film with me. So upset we didn't get that opportunity yet thankful I gained a real friend.
"You was so filled with life. Even when you was sick, you smiled, laughed and joked..... Rest in peace. Sleep easy Raynell . Sending love and condolences to your family and loved ones. Forever Rolling Ray," she added.
Singer-songwriter Bobby Lytes, who worked closely with Harper on Bobby I Love You, Purrr, said: “Damn. I tried to wait this one out, praying it was another rumor."
"Rest in Peace to the most famous boy in a wheelchair. We came together and showed the world how two different people from 2 separate paths in life can put hate aside and create magic.
"You are loved all over the world, and you will be missed dearly. Spread your wings and fly my iconic friend Rolling Ray," Lytes concluded.
Our thoughts are with Harper’s loved ones at this time.