A Tribute to a Rock Legend
A wide array of well-known figures are expected to attend the funeral of Ozzy Osbourne in his hometown of Birmingham on Wednesday. The Black Sabbath frontman passed away at the age of 76 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease, which was diagnosed in 2019. His hearse will make its way through central Birmingham in the early afternoon, offering fans and loved ones a chance to say their final goodbyes before a private ceremony.
The streets along the funeral procession route have been closed, as thousands of fans are anticipated to gather to honor the rock legend and his family. This event marks a significant moment for both the city and the music community, as it serves as a tribute to one of the most iconic figures in rock history.
A Star-Studded Attendance
Ozzy's longtime friend Elton John is believed to be leading the list of high-profile attendees who will pay their respects to the music icon. Alongside him will be other rock royalty, including his Black Sabbath bandmates Tony Iommi, Bill Ward, and Geezer Butler, as well as James Hetfield from Metallica.
A source revealed that singer Yungblud, who developed a close relationship with Ozzy and his wife Sharon Osbourne in recent years, will deliver a reading during the event. Additionally, Elton John is hoping to join the family at the church.
Yungblud, whose real name is Dominic Harrison, formed a strong bond with Ozzy and Sharon after appearing in the music video for his 2022 song, "The Funeral." The 27-year-old English artist even gifted Ozzy a sterling silver cross necklace backstage during his final concert earlier this month.
Elton has been a close friend of Ozzy for many years. Following Ozzy’s passing, he described the rocker as “a dear friend” who “secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods.”
Family and Community Support
Ozzy’s wife Sharon and their children Jack, Kelly, Aimee, and Louis, who is Ozzy’s son from his first marriage to Thelma Riley, will travel in cars behind his hearse. Their presence highlights the deep connection they share with the late musician.
Birmingham’s Lord Mayor, Zafar Iqbal, emphasized that the city where Osbourne grew up will give him the “farewell he deserves.” He noted that Ozzy was more than just a music legend—he was a true son of Birmingham.
After recently being awarded the Freedom of the City and making a celebrated appearance at the Back to the Beginning concert at Villa Park earlier this month, the city felt it was important to support a fitting and dignified tribute before the private family funeral.
Iqbal added that the event would mean a great deal to Ozzy’s fans and expressed pride in hosting it in the place where it all began. He also thanked the family for generously covering the costs to enable this tribute.
A Public Celebration of Life
At 1 p.m. today (Wednesday, 30), a hearse carrying Ozzy’s coffin will begin its journey through central Birmingham, with road closures already in place. The procession will start from Sheepscote Street and move onto Broad Street at 1 p.m., stopping at the Black Sabbath bridge and bench, where thousands of people have already left flowers and tributes.
Black Sabbath fans will be able to watch the procession from Broad Street, where a live brass band will accompany the hearse and other vehicles. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available. A video stream has been set up at the Black Sabbath Bench, and several live streams can be found on social media and online, including Page Six’s YouTube Channel.
A Private Farewell
On Thursday, there will be a closed service at a church in Gerrards Cross, Bucks. This private ceremony will offer the Osbourne family a final opportunity to celebrate the life of their beloved patriarch in a more intimate setting.
As the city of Birmingham honors the legacy of one of its most famous sons, fans and friends alike will remember Ozzy Osbourne not only as a musical pioneer but as a symbol of resilience and passion. His impact on rock music and the lives of those who knew him will continue to be felt for generations to come.
