Tens of thousands of fans gathered in Ozzy Osbourne‘s hometown of Birmingham, England on Wednesday for the funeral procession of the legendary rocker and Black Sabbath frontman, who died on July 22 at the age of 76.
The hearse holding Osbourne’s coffin made its way down Broad Street and past the Black Sabbath Bridge, where his widow, Sharon Osbourne, and children Jack and Kelly Osbourne got out to look at the overwhelming amount of goodbye messages left there. Sharon Osbourne was visibly emotional and leaned on her children for support as they walked hand in hand. After spending about five minutes at the bridge, they turned to the crowd and Sharon flashed Ozzy’s signature peace sign gesture.
It was a tearjerking moment for members of the crowd as well, who cheered on the Osbourne family and chanted “Ozzy Ozzy Ozzy, oi oi oi!” as well as “Thank you, Ozzy.” As the family got back into the hearse, purple flowers spelling out “Ozzy” sitting on top of his coffin could be seen. A private funeral service is being held for Osbourne’s family and close friends later in the day at an undisclosed location.
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Before the family arrived, a local brass band kicked off the procession, playing Osbourne hits including “Iron Man.” Osbourne was back in Birmingham earlier this month for Black Sabbath’s final concert, an all-day event titled “Back to the Beginning.” Not only did Osbourne and Black Sabbath perform, but the show featured tributes from Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, Tool, Pantera, Alice in Chains and more. Due to his previous spinal injuries and Parkinson’s disease, Osbourne remained seated for the event but otherwise appeared in good health.
“It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning,” the family said in a statement announcing his death. “He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”
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From Variety US