Wayne Osmond, the cherished sibling of Donny and Marie Osmond, has passed away at the age of 73, leaving behind a profound impact on the lives he touched. "Wayne Osmond, a devoted husband and father, passed peacefully into eternity last night, encircled by the warmth of his beloved wife and five children," the Osmond family solemnly announced in a statement posted on Thursday, via Wayne's daughter Amy Osmond Cook's Facebook page. "His enduring legacy of unwavering faith, enchanting music, boundless love, and infectious laughter has resonated with countless souls across the globe."
"He would wish everyone to embrace the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ, cherish the eternal bond of family, and indulge in the simple joy of banana splits as the ultimate dessert," the family affectionately added. "Our hearts are heavy with grief, yet we cherish him deeply and will forever miss his presence."
On the same day, Merrill Osmond confirmed that his brother Wayne had succumbed to a devastating stroke on New Year's Day. "Upon learning of my dear brother Wayne's stroke, I instantly knelt in prayer, seeking solace in the belief that his life's mission had been fulfilled," he penned on Facebook. "I rushed to the hospital in SLC, where I was granted the precious opportunity to bid him farewell."
"My brother was a saint even before he walked this earth, and he departs as an even more radiant saint," Merrill continued. "I have never encountered a man of greater humility, devoid of any deceit. He was swift to forgive and bestowed unconditional love upon everyone he met. While his departure from this world brings sorrow to some, those awaiting him on the other side will celebrate his arrival with a joy beyond our comprehension."
"Wayne's journey was fraught with challenges, yet he gave it his all. His musical genius and ability to bring millions closer to God will forever be remembered," Merrill further reflected. "I will miss him immensely, forever grateful to have grown up alongside one of Heavenly Father's greatest creations."
Donny Osmond also took to Instagram to pay a heartfelt tribute to his older brother. "My dear brother Wayne peacefully left us last night following a stroke," Donny wrote. "I am deeply grateful for the chance to visit him in the hospital before he departed. Wayne illuminated the lives of all who knew him with his boundless light, laughter, and love, especially mine. He was an optimist par excellence, beloved by all."
"I speak for all my siblings when I say we were incredibly fortunate to have Wayne as our brother," he continued. "Though separated in this mortal realm, I am assured by the grace and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ, that we will reunite with Wayne for eternity. I love you, Wayne."
Amy, Wayne's daughter, struggled to articulate her profound loss but expressed gratitude for the time shared with her father. "I find it hard to express the depth of my sorrow at losing my 'twin,'" she penned on Facebook. "Yet, I am profoundly grateful for the precious moments we shared, the unforgettable memories, his unyielding strength, unwavering loyalty to our family, immense talent, boundless energy, and, above all, his love. I eagerly await the day we will reunite. I love you, Dad."
To honor Wayne's memory, the Osmond family has established a "Wayne Osmond Celebration of Life Page" on Facebook, inviting fans to share their cherished memories, photographs, or humorous anecdotes in celebration of Wayne's life.
