Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary rock musician long known as the “Prince of Darkness,” died on July 22, 2025. He departed all of us at the age of 76. His death, which the world learned of that day, was an end of an era for his family and legions of fans. On July 30, Birmingham, England, served as an especially fitting backdrop for such a funeral march. The artist’s community rallied to pay tribute to the life and legacy of the iconic artist.
That energy was matched by the powerful procession that got things started in Birmingham. Especially its symbolic pause at the Black Sabbath bridge/bench, a site that has spiritual significance for Osbourne and his fanbase, The Sabbathian Armysocial. In the week following his death, a memorial began to materialize at this intersection. Fans crowded to pay their respects, covering it with touching tributes. The whole area became a shrine covered with flowers, candles, letters, and heartfelt sentiments. This moving memorial honored a man who had a seismic impact on music and culture.
Sharon Osbourne, with their children Jack, Kelly, and Aimee at right, took part in the sad ceremony. The family stopped at the memorial to appreciate the flowers and gifts fans had left. In a fitting gesture, they waved and saluted peace signs to the dozens of thousands who came to pay tribute to Osbourne’s life. This display represented all of their grief but their gratitude for the overwhelming support and love that they were receiving from fans all over the globe.
As they exited the hearse decorated with purple flowers, the family escorted Osbourne’s coffin along the center streets of Birmingham. In preparation for our celebration, they spent some time remembering his extraordinary life. In the months before his death, Osbourne had taken pride in being grandfather to ten grandchildren. This tremendous devotion to his family really brought out his strong dedication and love for them.
Osbourne’s final performance occurred just over two weeks prior to his death during the “Back to the Beginning” benefit concert in Birmingham. He shared the stage with former Black Sabbath bandmates, a fitting farewell for a musician who contributed so much to rock music history.
In addition to his immediate family with Sharon Osbourne, he leaves behind three children from his first marriage: Louis Osborne, Jessica Osbourne, and Elliot Kingsley. Collectively, they celebrate the substantial impact of a father and grandfather whose legacy will be felt for generations to come.
Shortly before his death, an American Knopf imprint announced Osbourne’s new memoir, “Last Rites,” due out October 7. This project serves as testament to his enduring legacy and deep connection with fans eager to learn more about his life journey.
