Ozzy Osbourne\’s hometown UK funeral draws thousands of devoted fans in touching tribute procession
Honoring Birmingham’s Metal Legend
Ozzy Osbourne’s farewell move stitched a route through his hometown, guided by family plans.
Route and Redesign
- Starting at 1200 GMT, the procession wove through Birmingham’s main streets.
- Fans filled the roadway, chanting “Ozzy! Ozzy! Ozzy!” while a stolid black Jaguar hearse carried the mournful coffin.
- The mournful march passed the singer’s childhood home in Aston before pausing at a landmark bridge.
The Black Sabbath Bench
At the art‑instilled bridge, visitors paused to pay respects. Family members, including widow Sharon Osbourne, arranged flowers and read heartfelt tributes left nearby.
Community Tribute
- Zafar Iqbal, Birmingham’s lord mayor, celebrated the city’s role in the legend’s birth, urging a dignified private service.
- Police motorbikes led the slow moveline toward a final hush.
Osbourne’s Legacy
Known for wild stage stunts—including biting a bat in Des Moines—Ozzy earned the “Prince of Darkness” moniker. His 1970 debut propelled Black Sabbath to global fame, selling over 75 million albums and earning Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction.
In a 2007 interview, Osbourne admitted a drunken attempt to strangle his wife Sharon, citing a 1989 arrest for the perilous act.
Osbourne’s final concert, a sold‑out Birmingham gig, concluded a period of shimmering musical brilliance. Now, Birmingham commemorates its native hero with a moving collective tribute.
