Model Trish Goff’s son, Nyima Ward, passes away at 27

Nyima Ward was for his vibrant spirit and deep love for nature.

Nyima Ward, son of celebrated model Trish Goff, has passed away at the age of 27. “Nyima Lee Ward of Ocala, Florida, blew into this world on January 2, 1997, destined to live life his own way,” reads Ward’s online obituary. “He left it on May 29, 2024, having lived fiercely, loved deeply, and made memories with the kind of fervour that only a young man who never met a stranger could.”

Goff, aged 47, welcomed Nyima in 1997 with her former partner Aaron Ward. The cause of his death has not been disclosed. He is survived by his parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and numerous friends. The obituary notes that Nyima, whose name means "the sun," was the centre of his parents’ universe. “There is no doubt that when he was born, he was the sun to parents Aaron Ward and Trish Goff’s whole system,” the tribute stated. “He remained there throughout his life.”

Following in his mother’s footsteps, Nyima pursued a career in modelling and shared her passion for nature. In addition to her modelling career, Goff is also known for her work as an animal activist. “He was a boy of the world, travelling extensively, who grew into a man of the earth, falling in love with farming and animals, and chasing his dreams from California to Florida,” the obituary continued. “It wouldn’t have been unheard of to find Nyima with a stray animal he’d saved on the side of the road or calling his mum to ask about animal care tips. He loved the water, always choosing boots and jeans for a day on the boat, and opted to be outdoors whenever he had the chance.”

Nyima’s love for the great outdoors and its creatures was matched only by his deep affection for his family and friends, who were spread across the globe. Although distance often kept him from spending much of his time with loved ones, he ensured he spent long, meaningful periods with them when possible.

This arrangement “suited him just fine” as he preferred “deep, present connections.” “The only thing in life that matched his height was his love of friends and family,” the tribute read. “Never missing an opportunity to tell his people he loved them or ensuring he had stayed in touch with his people.”

In lieu of flowers, Nyima’s family has requested donations be made in his memory to The Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation. Nyima and his mother remained close over the years, often expressing their appreciation for each other on social media. “Throwback to when I was small always chillin with my madre! Love you, mum,” Nyima wrote on Instagram in February 2016, alongside a black and white photo of him and his mum on a photoshoot set from his childhood.