Who Was Laurie Holt? Former Venezuelan Prisoner Josh Holt's Mother Dead

Laurie Holt, the mother of Josh Holt who was held in a Venezuelan prison for almost two years, died Sunday morning.

“We are devastated to announce the tragic passing of our sweet Mama Bear Laurie Holt this morning. She had a gigantic heart and we will miss her dearly. We ask for privacy as we mourn her passing and will provide more details on funeral arrangements as soon as possible,” the family announced in a Facebook post Sunday.

Josh traveled to the South American country in June 2016 to marry Thamara Caleno, a Mormon woman he had met online. He planned to stay in the country for a while with Caleno and her daughters so they could secure visas to move to the United States with him. However, Josh was accused of stockpiling weapons and was arrested along with his wife from their apartment on June.30, 2016, ABC 4 reported.

Laurie, who hails from Utah, fought for their release and said they were wrongly accused. She also gave interviews to media and started fundraisers to bring people’s attention to Josh’s imprisonment. Laurie also said her son suffered severe health problems in the prison including respiratory problems and was also under depression.

During one of the rallies held in support of Josh, Laurie had said, "Right now, Josh has no freedom. He has no rights whatsoever. He is not in a good place. He's a great young man. He just lights up a room with his grin. … I'm fighting for you, honey. I will get you home,” Desert News reported.

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s government set the duo free in May 2018, nearly two years after imprisonment.

“I love you so much mommy, you will be missed more than you know!!” Josh wrote on Facebook on Sunday.

Former Sen. Orrin Hatch too tweeted about Laurie’s death.

“In my entire Senate service there’s no memory I cherish more than seeing Laurie hug her son Josh when they were finally reunited. Our hearts ache at news of her passing but Elaine and I send our prayers and our love to Jason and the Holt family tonight,” he wrote.

Mia Love, Representative for Utah's 4th congressional district who also helped get Josh released, wrote, “My heart is broken to hear of the passing of my dear friend, Laurie Holt. She was loved by so many, especially her wonderful family. She was an amazing mother and friend and I will miss her dearly.”