Sharon in Tears, Ozzy’s Children by Her Side, and Birmingham Stops: Thousands Bid Final Goodbye to the Prince of Darkness
Sharon Osbourne broke down in tears as she stood by the Black Sabbath Bridge in Birmingham, flanked by her children Jack, Kelly, Aimee, and Louis, while thousands of fans lined the streets for Ozzy Osbourne’s extraordinary farewell.
The Prince of Darkness, who passed away last week at 76, was honoured with a funeral procession unlike any other. A live brass band marched along Broad Street, blasting Black Sabbath classics like Iron Man, as fans waved peace signs, shed tears, and sang along.
At the heart of it all was Sharon, visibly emotional but dignified, clutching flowers and making a peace sign back at fans as she laid a tribute with her children. The cortege paused at the Black Sabbath Bridge, now buried in floral offerings, before continuing toward the star’s childhood home in Aston, past Villa Park.
Crowds had gathered hours ahead of the 1pm procession, some travelling overnight from cities as far as Plymouth. “Ozzy felt like a family member to millions,” said one fan, simply known as Goose. “His music understood us.”
Children held signs reading Goodnight Ozzy – Birmingham Forever, while a girl named Eliza arrived with toy bats on her umbrella, proudly declaring, “Ozzy is Birmingham.”
Fans signed condolence books, wore vintage concert shirts, and flooded the streets from Navigation Street to Lodge Road. One mural read simply: Birmingham Loves You.
Musicians from Birmingham played Ozzy’s songs live during the event, and the city’s art museum held a tribute exhibition titled Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero. The Osbourne family covered the funeral costs, with the council providing full support.
Fan Evie Mayo captured the sentiment of the day: “He inspired everyone in Birmingham. I’m learning guitar just to play his songs. He changed lives.”
As Sharon wiped tears from her eyes and gave one last wave to the crowd, Birmingham stood still – united in love, grief, and gratitude for a boy from Aston who became a global legend.
