Hailey Merkt, a former contestant on Season 21 of The Bachelor, has passed away at the age of 31 after a brave battle with cancer, her family announced.
“With broken hearts, we share that our beloved Hailey has left us after courageously fighting for her life,” her family wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post. “She faced this journey with unimaginable strength, grace, and selflessness.”
Hailey was known for her infectious humor and radiant personality, and her passing has deeply affected everyone who knew her.
“Her determination and courage defied every timeline doctors gave her,” her family shared, adding that she spent her final moments surrounded by loved ones and doing what she cherished most. “Hailey lived with no regrets, embracing life fully.”
Her family remembered her as someone who brought joy to everyone she met. “She was anything but ordinary—hysterically funny, always present in the moment, and someone who lived life to its fullest. Hailey’s laughter, love, and vibrant spirit will be profoundly missed.”
Despite their grief, her family expressed comfort in the legacy she left behind. “We find solace in knowing her spirit will live on through the lives she touched. Rest in peace, Hailey,” they wrote.
Hailey had been open about her battle with leukemia, documenting her journey on social media to inspire and connect with others. Earlier this year, she underwent a bone marrow transplant that offered hope, but six weeks later, doctors discovered the cancer had aggressively returned.
Through it all, Hailey maintained a positive outlook, sharing moments from her treatment alongside fashion and lifestyle inspiration. In one October post, she shared a rare smile during her treatment, captioning the photo: “A rare moment caught smiling during treatment :).”
Her courage, humor, and resilience have left an indelible mark on her family, friends, and fans, who will cherish her memory forever.
The family of The Bachelor alum Hailey Merkt expressed heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support they received during her battle with cancer. They encouraged those who knew Hailey to honor her memory by sharing their cherished moments with her.
Several of Hailey’s fellow contestants from Nick Viall’s season of The Bachelor also paid tribute, mourning the loss of their friend and celebrating her vibrant spirit.
Vanessa Grimaldi, who won that season, shared her heartbreak: “Our beautiful girl!! 💔 This news broke me. You are such a light, your beautiful big smile will always be something I remember. Always. Rest easy, friend! 🤍🕊️ Sending big hugs to your loved ones xoxo.”
Danielle Maltby wrote a moving message: “I count myself so lucky to know your laugh and grateful to have met and loved the realest, warmest, most beautiful soul in the weirdest of places 🌹forever grateful for your friendship there and in the real world…. What a force my girl, rest easy 🤍 so much love to all your people.”
Dominique Alexis shared her sorrow, saying: “My love, I hope you are in the most beautiful peaceful place. I can’t imagine that I won’t see you again, but I’ll cherish every memory together. Love you 💔.”
Raven Gates expressed her sadness: “Oh my gosh!!! I’m so so sad to hear this 😢 I was so hoping for her recovery. Rest easy, Hailey 🤍 you’ll never be forgotten.”
Per Hailey’s wishes, there will not be an official funeral, as noted on the GoFundMe page. Instead, her family hopes those touched by Hailey’s life will continue to celebrate her memory through the moments and love they shared with her.
