Thousands gathered in the streets of Ozzy Osbourne’s native Birmingham, England early Wednesday ahead of his funeral procession led by an emotional Sharon Osbourne and their two kids, Jack and Kelly.
Fans crowded behind barriers through the “Iron Man” rocker’s hometown, where he performed his farewell gig and Black Sabbath reunion show earlier this month. He died last Tuesday at age 76 after years of health battles, including Parkinson’s.
Tens of thousands watched a recorded live stream of the funeral procession, as a marching band — donning Ozzy Osbourne jackets — played covers of hits like “Crazy Train.”
Jack, 39, and Kelly, 40, escorted Sharon, 72, as she tearfully laid flowers atop dozens, if not hundreds, of other bouquets, at what appeared to be Broad Street’s Black Sabbath Bridge. Next to the tributes was a sign that reads, “Ozzy Forever. Birmingham will love you forever.”
Fans shouted the late Prince of Darkness’ name, followed by, “Oi oi oi!”
The funeral cortéege carried a purple floral arrangement that spelled out the Grammy winner’s name on either side, topped off by a purple and black cross.
The procession came a day after an insider told People that the Osbournes were planning a “small, private funeral” and that “Ozzy would never want a mope-fest.”
Osbourne is survived by Sharon and his six children, which in addition to Kelly and Jack include Aimee, 41. Osbourne and first wife Thelma Riley shared Louis and Jessica as well as Riley’s son Elliot, who he adopted.
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