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Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary Black Sabbath frontman who passed away last week at the age of 76, will be laid to rest today, but not before one final tribute from the city that made him.
The heavy metal icon, affectionately known as the Prince of Darkness, will be honoured with a public funeral procession through his beloved hometown of Birmingham at 1pm, giving fans the opportunity to say a heartfelt farewell.
The procession, led by a horse-drawn carriage carrying Ozzy’s coffin, will travel through Broad Street, a stretch of road forever linked to his legacy. It will pause at the Black Sabbath Bridge and Bench, a landmark that has become a shrine to the singer in recent days, with fans laying flowers and holding vigils since the heartbreaking news of his death broke.
The city council has confirmed that Broad Street will be closed from 7am to allow thousands of mourners to gather safely. Local brass ensemble Bostin’ Brass will lead the cortege with a powerful musical tribute, befitting the frontman who changed the face of rock forever.
A private family funeral will follow later in the afternoon, attended by Ozzy’s wife Sharon Osbourne, their children, close family, and select friends from the world of music and entertainment.
The funeral plans were developed quickly after consultation with Sharon, Birmingham City Council, and civic leaders who felt it was essential that the people of Birmingham, and fans across the UK, had the chance to pay their respects in a dignified and meaningful way.
“Ozzy was more than a music legend, he was a son of Birmingham,” said Lord Mayor Zafar Iqbal. “It was important to the city that we support a fitting, dignified tribute ahead of a private family funeral. We know how much this moment will mean to his fans.”
“We’re going to pay our last respects and homage to one of the greatest living legends of Birmingham.”
Ozzy, who rose from a working-class background in Aston to become one of the most iconic figures in rock history, never forgot his roots. Despite global fame, chart-topping albums, and worldwide tours, he often credited Birmingham for shaping him both musically and personally.
Fans are being encouraged to line the route early and bring flowers, memorabilia, or simply stand in quiet reflection as the procession passes by.
The Osbourne family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love since Ozzy’s death, stating that he would have been “deeply moved” by the response from the people of Birmingham and fans worldwide.
As the city prepares to say goodbye, one thing is certain: Ozzy Osbourne’s legacy will echo through the streets of Birmingham, and the world, for generations to come.
