The family, friends, and legions of fans of Ozzy Osbourne have come together in a poignant farewell. The iconic frontman of Black Sabbath, who passed away peacefully on July 22nd at the age of 76 after a prolonged and valiant battle with Parkinson's disease, was laid to rest on July 31st, following a solemn procession through his hometown of Birmingham, England, on July 30th. The private funeral, held at his Buckinghamshire residence, was a poignant ceremony attended by his loved ones and fellow musicians, including Zakk Wylde and Marilyn Manson, as reported by various sources.
During the public proceedings, Ozzy's hearse made its way to Birmingham's Black Sabbath bridge and bench, where fans had left a sea of flowers and heartfelt messages, paying homage to the Prince of Darkness. The procession, led by his devoted wife Sharon Osbourne, their children Aimee, Kelly, and Jack Osbourne, along with Ozzy's son Louis, was accompanied by a lively brass band comprising local artists and special guests such as singer Yungblud and members of Black Sabbath.
"It was crucial for our city to honor Ozzy with a fitting and dignified tribute before his private family funeral," Birmingham Mayor Zafar Iqbal told reporters. "We understand the profound impact this moment will have on his fans."
Ozzy's family, who bore the expenses of the public memorial, as announced by Birmingham City Council, shared the news of his passing earlier this month. They expressed their overwhelming sadness, noting that their beloved patriarch passed away surrounded by his family and immersed in love.
In the days following Ozzy's demise, numerous celebrities paid heartfelt tributes both online and on stage. Lady Gaga and Cyndi Lauper performed Ozzy's 1980 solo hit "Crazy Train" during their concerts, while Johnny Depp joined Alice Cooper for a moving rendition of Black Sabbath's "Paranoid." Additionally, Coldplay dedicated their show to Ozzy's memory and performed a cover of the band's 1972 classic "Changes."
"We dedicate this entire performance to the incredible genius, unparalleled talent, and unique spirit that was Ozzy Osbourne," Chris Martin said during Coldplay's Nashville concert on July 22nd. "Our love goes out to his family."
Meanwhile, Ozzy's children from his marriage to Thelma Riley, Jessica and Louis, offered subtle yet profound tributes to their father. Kelly, in an emotional Instagram Stories post, revealed that she had lost "the best friend I ever had."
In the weeks preceding his death, Ozzy, born John Michael Osbourne, reunited with his bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward for their final performance, although his sister Jean Powell noted that his health was waning. "It was heartbreaking to see him struggle to stand up straight," the 85-year-old shared in a joint interview with her sister Gillian Hemming, published on July 23rd. "But he was still our John, still cracking his signature jokes."
