Lauri Peterson, former cast member of “The Real Housewives of Orange County,” announced the death of her son, Josh Waring, in a heartbreaking Instagram tribute. She described her shattered heart and deep sense of loss, reflecting on his life filled with intellect, humor, athleticism, and love for music and family. Despite facing hardships as an adult, Waring maintained his sense of humor, optimism, and kindness. Peterson highlighted the joy and purpose Waring found in being a father to his daughter, Kennady, and thanked those who supported him through his struggles with substance abuse. She expressed her undying love for her son and hoped he found peace in the afterlife.
Waring’s adult life was marked by challenges, including a period of incarceration between 2016 and 2020 after being arrested for attempted murder outside a sober living home in California. However, he was released after pleading to lesser charges due to unauthorized eavesdropping on his jail phone calls by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department. Despite the difficulties he faced, Waring’s lawyer expressed hope that lessons from his case would benefit other inmates. In 2022, Waring faced new charges for possession of fentanyl and methamphetamine, as well as attempting to sell fentanyl. Throughout his struggles, he left behind a daughter, Kennady.
Peterson’s journey with her son’s struggles was documented on “RHOC,” where she opened up about the challenges he faced. In an interview in 2015, she shared the difficulties Waring and his wife were experiencing, particularly after the birth of their daughter. Despite the obstacles, Peterson remained a supportive and loving mother, stepping in to adopt Kennady to help her son get back on his feet. Waring’s difficulties were evident to viewers of the reality show, showcasing the real-life struggles faced by the cast members off-screen.
The cause of Waring’s death was not disclosed in Peterson’s tribute, leaving fans and followers to wonder about the circumstances. Despite the challenges Waring faced in his adult life, he was remembered by his mother as a kind, humorous, and loving individual who found happiness in his daughter. As a tribute to him and the impact he had on those around him, Peterson expressed her eternal love for her son and her hopes that he had found peace in the afterlife. The tragic news of Waring’s passing was met with an outpouring of condolences and support from fans, friends, and loved ones.
Throughout her post, Peterson shared intimate details of Waring’s life and the impact he had on those around him. From his childhood filled with activities, humor, and love for his family to his struggles with substance abuse and incarceration as an adult, Waring’s journey was a rollercoaster of emotions. Despite the hardships he faced, he was remembered by his mother as a beloved son, father, and friend who left a lasting impact on those who knew him. The legacy of Waring’s life and the challenges he overcame will continue to resonate with fans of the show and those who followed his journey.
