"The Real Housewives of Orange County" alum Lauri Peterson's son, Joshua-Michael Waring, has died. He was 35.

On Saturday, the reality star announced via Instagram the shocking news that her son died on March 31. The cause of death was not disclosed.

Alongside photos of Waring through the years, Peterson wrote an emotional tribute to her son, expressing her grief over his passing.

"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."

The 63-year-old TV personality shared that Waring's early years had been filled with "deep intellect, humor, pranks, athletics, snowboarding, bodyboarding, mountain hikes, reading, friends, and his love for music."

Despite enduring "adult hardship," Peterson said her son continued to "maintain his sense of humor" and be "kind" and "optimistic." She also said that he "defended those that were unable to defend themselves and continued to love his family so, so much!"

The Bravo star added that Waring "received the most joy, pride, and purpose through his daughter Kennady."

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In her post, Peterson briefly touched on Waring's struggles with substance abuse, expressing her gratitude to everyone who supported her and her son during their challenging moments.

"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.

Peterson also thanked those who offered their support by sharing stories of living with substance abuse disorder or of losing children to the illness.

Directly addressing her son, Peterson wrote, "Josh I love you so much and I will miss you terribly! 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!"

The reality star said she hopes her son has found "peace" before concluding her post with, "Heaven has gained the coolest angel, and you have gained your freedom at last, sweet boy. Love always and forever, Mom."

Waring served time in prison from 2016 to 2020 for attempted murder.

He was arrested again in 2022 for felony possession for sales of a narcotic and a misdemeanor charge of possession of a controlled substance.

Waring was allegedly dealing fentanyl and in possession of methamphetamine at the time of his arrest, according to TMZ.

He pleaded guilty to the drug charges and was sentenced to two years in prison, the Los Angeles Times reported.

"Real Housewives" stars sent their condolences to Peterson following the news of her son's death.

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

Executive producer Andy Cohen called the news "heartbreaking" in his own comment.

"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," he added.

Peterson appeared in the first four seasons of "The Real Housewives of Orange County" as a main cast member. She returned in the following seasons as a guest and friend.

She shares Waring as well as daughters Ashley and Sophie with husband George Peterson.

Waring is survived by his young daughter, Kennady.

Tags
Lauri peterson, The Real Housewives of Orange County, Josh waring