Internet consoles 'RHOC' alum Lauri Peterson as she announces death of son Josh at 35 for substance abuse
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Lauri Peterson's son, Josh Waring, tragically passed away on March 31 at the age of 35.
The 'Real Housewives of Orange County' alum made the tragic sad announcement on April 6 on Instagram, writing, “It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday.”
The 63-year-old devastated mother included a heartfelt message about his life and death alongside his photos throughout the years, starting from childhood pictures to shots of him with his daughter, Kennady.
"No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss,” she wrote, adding that “every fiber in my body hurts.”
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Lauri Peterson's son Josh Waring 'fought every single day'
The former 'RHOC' star said that Waring “fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great.”
“Josh’s childhood was filled with deep intellect, humor, pranks, athletics, snow boarding, body boarding mountain hikes, reading, friends and his love for music,” she wrote, per People Magazine.
“Even during adult hardship, Josh continued to maintain his sense of humor, continued to be optimistic, continued to be kind to others, defended those that were unable to defend themselves and continued to love his family so so much!” she added.
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Lauri Peterson on Josh Waring as a father
Reflecting on Waring's years as a father, Peterson wrote that he “received the most joy, pride and purpose through his daughter Kennady and watching her grow and thrive over the years,” and thanked those who “have tried to help Josh along the way.”
Josh Waring was suffering from substance abuse
“I am witness to many Angels on earth. Not everyone understands those suffering from substance abuse disorder, but I am forever grateful for your understanding and the impact you made on his life,” wrote Peterson.
“I also thank those who have supported me through this journey and offering kind words of encouragement by sharing their stories of living with substance abuse disorder and the many parents that have shared their stories over the years with me about the children they have sadly lost due to this illness,” she added.
“Josh I love you so much and I will miss you terribly!” Peterson continued. “I will forever be your ‘Mama Bear & Mama Dukes’ and every time the clock turns to 11:11, I will expect your call to tell me to make a wish! What will I wish for now? My heart is with you and I pray you have found the peace that you so deserve. Heaven has gained the coolest angel and you have gained your freedom at last sweet boy. Love always and forever, Mom.”
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Josh Waring made headlines for legal troubles
Waring made headlines for his legal troubles in recent years. He pleaded guilty to a 2022 drug charge after he was found in possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine, the Los Angeles Times reported at the time.
He was sentenced to two years in prison.
Waring also spent four years in prison for attempted murder after shooting a man named Daniel Lopez outside of a sober living home in 2016. Lopez survived the shooting. Peterson spoke out about her son’s legal troubles on social media in 2018, alleging police had set him up.
Internet pays condolences to Josh Waring following his untimely demise
Many of Peterson's followers and co-workers paid their respects and tried to console the actress during this hard time.
"My heart breaks for you, i know how hard you worked to be his advocate . Big hug and prayers for your family at this sad time," wrote one.
Another commented, "Remember he was so lucky to have a mom who never gave up. RIP."
"I love you so much momma, your strength exceeds this world. we are all so lucky to have you on our team. Josh will always be looking over our shoulder after us🤍," said one, and another penned, "I am so very sorry Lauri. Love to you and your family."
"I am so sorry for your loss sweetie. Sending you love and prayers at this difficult time. Josh is in a beautiful place now as hard as it is," said one follower.
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