The Nigerian relationship and personal-development community has been plunged into mourning following the death of celebrated therapist and family life coach Lara Kudayisi Don-Momoh.

Popularly known as “Dear Coach Lara,” she died peacefully on July 30, 2026, at the age of 42 after a brief illness, according to a statement released by her family through her official Instagram account.

The devastating news comes barely two weeks after Lara and her husband, veteran radio personality Teddy Don-Momoh, welcomed their first child together. What had recently been a season of celebration for the couple has now turned into unimaginable grief for their household, friends and supporters.

In announcing her passing, the family described Lara as a beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. They appealed for privacy and prayers while they attempt to cope with the painful loss. Funeral and burial arrangements are expected to be announced at a later date.

Lara was widely respected for her work as a cognitive behavioural therapist and relationship expert. She founded Lara Kudayisi International, an organisation through which she supported people dealing with heartbreak, emotional trauma, marital difficulties and personal-development challenges.

She was also known as the “Matchmaking Mistress” and authored books including How the Matchmaker Marriage Failed and What’s Wrong With My Taste in Men? Her work and public teachings earned her a loyal audience across Nigeria and beyond.

Lara married Teddy Don-Momoh in April 2023. Teddy had previously been married to popular Nigerian gospel singer Kefee, who died in June 2014.

Tributes have continued to pour in from followers, clients and colleagues stunned by the sudden tragedy. Many remembered Lara as a resilient woman who transformed her personal experiences into lessons that helped others heal and rebuild their lives.

Her death leaves behind a grieving husband, children, relatives and countless people whose relationships and emotional journeys were touched by her work.

Though her voice has been silenced far too soon, Lara Kudayisi’s teachings, compassion and commitment to healing will remain an enduring part of her legacy.