News Scrap

Sad news out of the OC! On Wednesday, RHOC alum Lydia McLaughlin announced the passing of her mom, Judy.

Late Wednesday evening, former Real Housewives of Orange County star Lydia McLaughlin shared the sad new news that her mother, Judy Stirling , had suddenly passed away the night before on Tuesday, October 8.

On Instagram, the Real Housewives of Orange County alum wrote:

“My mom passed away last night. ? We are heart broken but we know she’s dancing with Jesus. ? Fairdust, confetti bombs and crowns like heaven has never seen before. ?What’s in the cat is in the kitten and I promise to continue to make you proud @ocjudymom ?”

RHOC Alum Lydia McLaughlin’s Mom Judy Passes Away

Judy Stirling’s cause of death is unknown at this time. She was 76-years-old.

Naturally, Lydia’s Real Housewives of Orange County family rallied around her in the comment section of her Instagram post, offering her love and support while also sharing fond memories of Judy during her memorable appearances on the Orange County Housewives franchise.

Lydia McLaughlin with former RHOC co-stars
Lydia McLaughlin with her RHOC co-stars during season 8

Gretchen Rossi wrote: “Oh Lydia just heartbroken for you all ?Judy was such a light and a gift straight from Heaven. She was so loved by so many. I will be praying for all of you as you navigate this difficult time. She will forever hold a special place in my heart. We love you Judy. Sending love and healing prayers ????.”

“Lydia, your mom was a jewel that sparkled like no one else?. Words can’t even describe how much I adored her. I feel so blessed to have known her & the past few years that I’ve gotten closer to her were such a gift to me. The bond you two have is so priceless & beautiful. I have been hearing her voice all day today. She always made me laugh. She was my Goldie Hawn. I love you so much my sweet friend and I loved seeing your beautiful face tonight. I’m sure she’s throwing glitter all over heaven right now. You are in my prayers. What a gift your mom was so to everyone. I will miss her. ??????,” Lizzie Rosvek commented.

Lydia McLaughlin and her mom, Judy Stirling shopping on RHOC.

The OG of the OC, Vicki Gunvalson, shared, “Oh honey – I am so sorry to hear this. What an incredible bond you and your mother had. Peace be with you and your family ???.”

“I’m so sorry for your loss. She was a wonderful lady. She will be truly missed ????,” RHOC alum Peggy Sulahian added.

Alexis Bellino commented, “Lydia, I’m so sorry for your loss. I know your pain right now. I loved EVERY SINGLE THING about your mom. I’m only a phone call away. Love you sweetie. ??????,” while former RHOC star Peggy Tanous wrote, “I’m so so sorry sweetie. I adored your mom like she was my own. Sending your family love and prayers.”

Finally, Andy Cohen shared, “Fairy dust in the sky! ? thank you for sharing her with us ?.”

Lydia McLaughlin starred on RHOC for one season in 2013. She later returned returned for season 12 before walking away from the show again.

RHOC's Judge Stirling showing off her infamous fairy dust
RHOC’s Judy Stirling

During Lydia’s time on RHOC, her mom, Judy, became a fan favorite thanks to her love of smoking pot, her laid back demeanor, and her penchant for sprinkling people with fairy dust. Judy also infamously got into it with Vicki Gunvalson’s son-in-law Ryan Culberson, who she infamously threatened to fairy dust following their argument.

The Real Housewives of Orange County airs on Bravo Thursdays at 9 p.m. ET.

Thoughts on this sad news? Sound off in the comments!