Lauren Alaina has always been open about her personal life. Shortly after her time on American Idol, Lauren's parents divorced. Her dad is a recovering alcoholic, but has been sober for 5 years. She's also always been very open about the fact that her mom married her dad's best friend, someone Lauren very much considered an uncle growing up. Although her family tree could look messy to some on the outside, Lauren has always been outspoken about being happy for her parent's happiness, even if they're not together.
However, sadly over the weekend Lauren's step dad passed away after a battle with stage 4 cancer. Lauren first shared that he was battling the disease in June, and sadly his fight came to end this weekend. She shared the news in a beautiful tribute about him and his final hours on social media.
My stepdad, Sam, went to heaven at one o’clock this morning. He was the purest example of how to love and live life fully. His last few hours were some of the most amazing moments I know I will ever have the privilege of witnessing. He opened his eyes last night. They shined the brightest I’ve ever seen anyone’s eyes shine, and he said, “Jesus.” We said, “What do you see Sam?” He said, “It’s so beautiful.” Mom asked him who he saw and he told her a bunch of people, including his mama. He later said, “I love you all. I found it.” My mom asked him what he found and he said, “Heaven. I’ve got to go.” An hour later he went to be with the Lord. I want this story to be an example of how real God is. We are only here for a short amount of time, and we have to live like there is no tomorrow. I want us to all be a little more like Sam. He was strong. He was the most compassionate person in the world. He would go without to help a stranger. He was a great dad. Now he is with the best Father in the universe. Thank you to everyone who has supported our family in this time. We appreciate the love, donations, and prayers that we have received.
We are sending all of our love to Lauren and her family during this incredibly difficult time.