While all of heavy metal celebrated the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne on July 5th at the Back to the Beginning concert, no one could have expected that the icon would pass away just a few weeks later. On July 22nd, news flooded social media that the Prince of Darkness passed away at 76. Able to take the stage one last time before his death, countless celebrities, singers, musicians, and fans took a moment to share their memories of Ozzy. And with the Osbourne family preparing to lay Ozzy to rest, details surrounding the icon’s funeral have been released.
For starters, a small, private ceremony for those close to Ozzy will take place before a larger funeral procession. The public funeral will travel through the singer’s hometown of Birmingham, England. Over the last few weeks, the Black Sabbath bridge and bench have welcomed thousands of flowers and messages from fans.
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[RELATED: Sharon Osbourne Is “Heartbroken but Very Proud” Following Husband Ozzy Osbourne’s Death]
Tony Iommi Promises “There Won’t Ever Be Another” Ozzy Osbourne
To allow every fan of Ozzy to take part in the funeral, a live stream of the Black Sabbath bench will begin at 8:00 a.m. EST. Discussing the funeral, Lord Mayor Zafar Iqbal said, “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.”
With the music industry mourning the passing of Ozzy, his former bandmate Tony Iommi struggled with the news. Having stood on the stage with him just a few weeks ago, he wrote, “I just can’t believe it! My dear dear friend Ozzy has passed away only weeks after our show at Villa Park. It’s just such heartbreaking news that I can’t really find the words, there won’t ever be another like him. Geezer, Bill and myself have lost our brother. My thoughts go out to Sharon and all the Osbourne family. Rest in peace Oz. Tony.”
While Ozzy’s legacy continued to inspire and entertain, the singer received one last chance to thank fans for their support over the decades. And for his final act, Ozzy helped raise nearly $200 million for charity.
(Photo by Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images)
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