His coffin was carried down Broad Street, one of the city’s busiest roads, and paused at a very special place, Black Sabbath Bridge. This bridge was named in honor of the band Ozzy.
Image Source: X
On Wednesday, thousands of fans gathered in Birmingham, England, to say goodbye to Ozzy Osbourne. Known as the “Prince of Darkness” and the voice behind legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath, Ozzy passed away earlier this month at the age of 76.
The city that shaped him turned into a place of mourning, love, and celebration as people from all over came to honor his life and legacy.
Advertisement
The funeral procession of Ozzy Osbourne moved slowly through the heart of Birmingham, following a path filled with memories. His coffin was carried down Broad Street, one of the city’s busiest roads, and paused at a very special place, Black Sabbath Bridge.
Advertisement
This bridge was named in honor of the band Ozzy helped form nearly 60 years ago. Since his death, it has become a gathering spot for fans who wanted to pay tribute to the rock icon.
Ozzy’s wife, Sharon Osbourne, visibly heartbroken, placed a soft pink rose among the many flowers and handwritten notes fans had left. She stood silently for a few minutes, surrounded by Ozzy’s children and grandchildren.
The family waved gently to the crowd, who responded not with cheers but with silence, peace signs in the air, and tears in their eyes.
Then, a chant broke out: “Ozzy! Ozzy! Ozzy! Oi! Oi!”.
The city of Birmingham organized a beautiful send-off. The Bostin Brass Band marched behind six police motorcycles, playing some of Black Sabbath’s greatest hits. Fans joined in, singing along to songs that had shaped their lives.
Many wore leather jackets, Black Sabbath T-shirts, and hats with flames and spikes. Most of them were clothes they had worn to Ozzy’s concerts over the years.
Just two weeks before his death, Ozzy had performed one last time in his hometown at a concert titled “Black Sabbath: Back to the Beginning.” Held at Villa Park, the event brought together the original members of the band. It also had guest acts like Metallica and Guns N’ Roses.
Along the funeral route, large screens displayed messages that read “Ozzy Forever: Birmingham Will Always Love You” beside photos of the singer in his prime.
Some fans stood on railings, others climbed on top of bus stops just to get a better view. A few police officers gently passed flowers from the crowd to the family.
After the public procession, a private service was held for close friends and family.
Advertisement
