**Thousands Mourn as Birmingham Bids Farewell to Ozzy Osbourne**
Birmingham came to a solemn standstill today as fans gathered in their thousands to say a final goodbye to one of its most iconic sons—Ozzy Osbourne. The Prince of Darkness, who defined heavy metal as the frontman of Black Sabbath, was honored in a moving tribute through the streets of his hometown, with a private funeral scheduled for tomorrow.
Leading the farewell was Sharon Osbourne, Ozzy’s wife of over 40 years, who stood with their children—Aimee, Kelly, and Jack—at the heart of the procession. Draped in black and visibly emotional, Sharon wore Ozzy’s signature silver chain and skull ring, a powerful symbol of her enduring connection to the late music legend.
The funeral cortege made a poignant stop at the Black Sabbath Bridge, where the family paused to reflect on the outpouring of love from fans. Hundreds of floral tributes, handwritten notes, band t-shirts, and candles lined the iconic spot, paying homage to Ozzy’s transformative impact on music and culture.
The hearse also passed by Ozzy’s modest childhood home in Aston, a red-brick terraced house that has become a place of pilgrimage for grieving fans. The current owners honored his memory by placing a framed photo of Ozzy and fresh flowers in the front window.
Fans of all ages filled the streets, many dressed in vintage Black Sabbath and Ozzy solo tour shirts, holding up signs and singing along to classic tracks that blasted from portable speakers. Some wept quietly; others raised devil horns to the sky in a show of solidarity and thanks.
Tomorrow’s private funeral will be attended by a host of stars and close friends. Among those expected are Sir Elton John, Metallica, Yungblud, and surviving members of Black Sabbath—Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward—who are rumored to perform a short tribute during the service.
Though Ozzy’s voice has been silenced, his legacy echoes louder than ever. Today, Birmingham didn’t just mourn a rock icon—it celebrated a life that forever changed music and gave a city global identity through heavy metal. The air may have been heavy with grief, but the spirit of Ozzy Osbourne roared defiantly on.
