On September 4, 2025, numerous media outlets reported the death of musician Rolling Ray at age 28. The news of the social media influencer, whose real name is Raymond Harper, prompted tributes from fans across social media. The Zeus Network, where Ray made several appearances, confirmed that he died on September 3. The network's Instagram post read:"Gone way too soon. #RestInPeace to the BIG hearted, most Raw, & Real FRIEND & #Zeus Star #RaymondHarper aka @iamrollingray. 🙏🏾 Your Laughter, Light, & Loving Spirit will Live on FOREVER! ♾️"The network also mentioned that Rolling Ray was "unapologetically & authentically" his truest self. View this post on Instagram Instagram PostThe social media influencer, boasting 447K followers on Instagram, was born on September 5, 1996, and gained popularity for his videos that blend humor with his bold personality. Raymond Harper was from the Washington, D.C. area and was often seen in a wheelchair. Eventually, he became a symbol for the disabled and LGBTQ+ communities.According to Marca's report dated September 3, 2025, the influencer first appeared on MTV's Catfish: Trolls in 2018. Additionally, he appeared on shows like Bobby I Love U, Divorce Court, and Purr. One of Raymond's most memorable moments includes using the catchphrase "purr" and making judge Lynn Toler laugh in Divorce Court. More details about Rolling Ray explored amid news of his demiseAccording to Prime Timer's report dated September 4, 2025, Rolling Ray used a wheelchair because he had Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a genetic neuromuscular disease that causes muscle deterioration. The publication cited one of Raymond's interviews with I Got Time Today, where he recalled the initial prognosis his doctors had given, stating:"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 14 but you know science changed and doctors are not always right."Ray also faced several health issues over the years. In February 2021, the musician suffered serious burns after an accident where his wig caught fire. He underwent surgery and a lengthy recovery period at that time.Raymond Harper (Image via Instagram/@iamrollingray)Additionally, Raymond Harper was hospitalized in 2022 due to COVID-19-related complications and fell into a coma. However, he bounced back on social media after recovery with a video where he wore a haircut that read "NOT DEAD." In the comeback video, the social media influencer said, "It never gave dead." In May and June 2024, Rolling Ray was hospitalized again with serious breathing problems, a blood infection, and pneumonia. At that time, Raymond was placed in intensive care for low oxygen levels, leading him to admit that he didn't think he'd live to see Mother's Day that year. According to Marca's report, Rolling Ray's mother also confirmed his death via a Facebook post, which read:"It is with a heavy heart that I let you all 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... Please pray for us as we push forward to lay him to rest... Only God Knows."Rolling Ray died just a day before turning 29. Fans of the social media influencer have been writing words of affirmation on his posts, showing his impact on the internet.