The modeling world is mourning the loss of Nyima Ward, son of supermodel Trish Goff, who has passed away at the young age of 27.

Nyima, the only child of Goff and Aaron Ward, took his final breath on May 29, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of his own in the fashion industry. An emotional tribute to Nyima described him as someone who ‘lived life on his own terms and loved deeply.’

Born on January 2, 1997, in New York City, Nyima’s name means ‘the Sun’ in Tibetan, and he was indeed a shining light to his parents, Aaron and Trish. With family spread across the globe, from New York to New Zealand and London to Florida, Nyima cherished deep and meaningful connections with his loved ones.

Nyima was the son of 90s fashion icon Trish Goff and Aaron Ward.

Growing up, Nyima was a world traveler who later developed a deep connection with nature, finding solace in farming and caring for animals. He was known for his compassionate spirit, often rescuing stray animals and seeking advice from his mother on animal care.

Nyima had a strong affinity for the water, opting for boots and jeans on boat trips. He cherished spending time outdoors and cherished his relationships with friends and family, ensuring he stayed connected and expressed his love for them.

A heartfelt tribute was paid to Nyima, celebrating his unique spirit and deep love for life.

Goff and Nyima shared a close bond, as seen in this heartwarming photo from 2015.

Nyima walked the runway for top designers, including Anna Sui, John Varvatos, and Kye.

Friends and family honored Nyima’s memory with matching diamond tattoos at his funeral.

Nyima’s modeling career began at the age of 18, following in his mother’s footsteps. After his parents’ separation, Goff began dating DNA Models owner David Bonnouvrier, who encouraged Nyima to sign with the agency.

In an interview with W Magazine in 2015, Nyima shared his thoughts on modeling, saying, ‘I consider myself more of a woodworker, honestly, than a model.’ Despite his success in the industry, he saw modeling as a side gig and preferred a nine-to-five job.

Nyima’s striking features and dark locks caught the attention of renowned designers. He walked the runway for Anna Sui, 23 years after his mother’s debut, as well as for John Varvatos and Kye. He also collaborated with iconic fashion photographers like Bruce Weber and Steven Meisel on high-fashion editorials.

Nyima is survived by his parents, Trish and Aaron, his stepfather David Bonnouvrier, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. His impact on the fashion industry and the lives he touched will forever be remembered.

Trish Goff, a supermodel scouted at 15, graced multiple Vogue covers and campaigns for top fashion brands.

Trish Goff, Nyima’s mother, was scouted by a modeling agent at the young age of 15. She dropped out of school and moved to New York City to pursue a high-fashion career. Goff graced multiple Vogue covers and campaigns for prestigious brands such as Banana Republic, Chanel, Chloé, and Christian Dior.

She later relocated to London with her then-husband, Angus Munro, and eventually retrained as a real estate agent in New York City. Currently, she resides in Kenya with David Bonnouvrier and works for a wildlife conservatory.