Joshua-Michael Waring, son of “The Real Housewives of Orange County” alum Lauri Peterson, dies at 35

“No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss. Every fiber in my body hurts,” Peterson wrote.

Lauri Peterson is mourning the death of her son Joshua-Michael Waring.

The Real Housewives of Orange County alum wrote a moving post about his death at the age of 35 on March 31.

“It is with a shattered heart that I write this post to let you know that my sweet Josh left this earth Easter Sunday,” Peterson wrote. “No one can ever prepare you for this feeling of such deep loss. Every fiber in my body hurts. Josh fought every single day for most of his adult life, for his life, but this past Sunday, the challenge was too great."

She continued, "Josh’s childhood was filled with deep intellect, humor, pranks, athletics, snowboarding, bodyboarding, mountain hikes, reading, friends, and his love for music. 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!”

Waring had dealt with substance abuse issues throughout his life, and was arrested in 2022 for one felony and multiple misdemeanor drug charges, ultimately pleading guilty. He had previously spent four years in prison for attempted murder from 2016 until 2020.

Peterson acknowledged her son’s challenges in her post. “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,” she wrote. “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.”

“My heart is with you, and I pray you have found the peace that you so deserve,” Peterson continued. “Heaven has gained the coolest angel, and you have gained your freedom at last, sweet boy. Love always and forever, Mom.”

Waring's cause of death was not disclosed.

Numerous members of the Real Housewives franchise extended their sympathies in the comments.

“This is heartbreaking,” executive producer Andy Cohen wrote. “You tried so hard to save him, and by sharing Josh’s story you wound up educating people around the world about the tragedy of addiction for those who are touched by it. May Josh’s memory be a blessing to you always.”

“Oh, Laurie, my heart breaks for you so much,” RHOC star Gretchen Rossi wrote. “I know how much you fought for him and always wanted nothing but the best for him.”

“I am so incredibly sorry, Lauri,” wrote fellow RHOC alum Jo De La Rosa. “Sending you all my love and praying for your heart. Here if you need anything.”

“I am so very sorry, Lauri,” said former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Eileen Davidson. “Love to you and your family.”

Waring is survived by his daughter, Kennady.

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