Rolling Ray, Viral Social Media Star, Dies at 28

Washington, D.C. (September 3, 2025) - Raymond Harper, known to millions online as Rolling Ray, has died at the age of 28, his family confirmed today. A prominent wheelchair-using influencer and rapper celebrated for his catchphrase “purr,” Rolling Ray’s passing was announced in heartfelt posts by his mother and cousin on Facebook the day before what would have been his 29th birthday.

Rolling Ray first gained widespread recognition after appearing on MTV’s Catfish: Trolls in 2018. He went on to feature on Divorce Court and the reality dating series Bobby I Love U, Purrr, earning acclaim for his bold wit and advocacy for disability representation. Born in Martinsburg, Missouri, in 1996, Harper had built a devoted following-over 440,000 on Instagram-through his humor, candid storytelling, and unfiltered confidence.

In a poignant Facebook message, his mother, Shazola Nay, wrote: > “It is with a heavy heavy heart that I let you all know that my son Ray Ray (iamrollingray) has gone home to be with the Lord… Please pray for us as we push forward to lay him to rest… Only God knows.”

His cousin, posting as “Coolest Kishia,” added: > “I am sitting in my room with tears rolling down my cheeks. I am so heartbroken. You are my favorite person. Why you dogged me like this?”

Fans across social platforms have since shared tributes, celebrating his resilience through past health battles. Rolling Ray survived a severe wig-fire accident in 2021 that left him hospitalized with burns, and later overcame pneumonia, a blood infection, and a coma he described as “it never gave dead” during lengthy ICU stays.

His musical catalog included tracks like Look At Me, Gun Action, Thank You, and the viral anthem BigPurrrr, which cemented his influence on Gen Z slang and internet culture. Beyond entertainment, Rolling Ray’s unapologetic authenticity inspired many within Black, LGBTQ+, and disability communities.

Details surrounding the cause of his death have not been released. Funeral arrangements are pending family announcement. Rolling Ray’s impact on social media and his advocacy for disabled visibility leave a lasting legacy that fans and fellow creators will continue to honor.