Crossword Genius

Model, one sure to drop dead, refused ecstasy (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

paragon

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'model' is the definition.
(a paragon is a model example of something)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for paragon that I've seen before include "Exemplar" , "A model as of virtue" , "An ideal" , "Role model" , "Perfect embodiment of a concept" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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