Dayle Haddon dies from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning
NEW HOPE, Pa. –
Dayle Haddon, a pioneering former “Sports Illustrated” model and advocate who challenged age discrimination in the fashion industry, tragically passed away in a Pennsylvania home due to suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.
The authorities in Bucks County discovered Haddon, 76, deceased in a second-floor bedroom on Friday morning after receiving a report of an unconscious individual at a residence in Solebury Township. Walter J. Blucas, 76, from Erie, was found in critical condition and hospitalized.
Upon investigation, a faulty flue and exhaust pipe on a gas heating system were identified as the cause of the carbon monoxide leak in the property. The high levels of carbon monoxide prompted two medics to be hospitalized for exposure, while a police officer was treated at the scene.
Haddon rose to fame as a model, gracing the covers of renowned magazines such as Vogue, Cosmopolitan, and Esquire in the 1970s and 1980s. She also made a notable appearance in the 1973 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue and ventured into acting, appearing in several films throughout her career.
After taking a hiatus from modeling to focus on raising her daughter following her husband’s passing in 1991, Haddon encountered ageism when she tried to reenter the industry. Despite facing initial rejection, she persevered and became a spokesperson for mature women, advocating for inclusivity in the beauty and fashion sectors.
Transitioning into a new role, Haddon collaborated with major cosmetic brands like Clairol, Estée Lauder, and L’Oreal, promoting anti-aging products and championing the representation of older women in media. She also contributed as a beauty expert on CBS’s “The Early Show” and launched initiatives to empower women globally.
In 2008, Haddon established WomenOne, a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for girls and women in underserved communities across the globe, including Rwanda, Haiti, and Jordan.
Born in Canada, Haddon initially pursued modeling to fund her passion for ballet before embarking on a successful career in the fashion industry. Her daughter, Ryan, described her as a beacon of inspiration and a compassionate soul who touched the lives of many.
“A pure heart. A rich inner life. Touching so many lives. A life well lived. Rest in Light, Mom,” Ryan expressed in a heartfelt tribute on social media.
