Family and Fans Bid Farewell to Ozzy Osbourne in Emotional Birmingham Procession
On July 30, 2025, in his hometown of Birmingham, England, thousands lined the streets as the funeral cortege of Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath, made its somber journey through the city. The hearse traveled down Broad Street, pausing at the now-famous Black Sabbath Bridge and bench, where fans had been leaving tributes since his passing.
A Final Public Goodbye
The procession began around 1 pm BST, accompanied by local brass band Bostin’ Brass, offering a live musical tribute to celebrate Ozzy’s life and legacy.
Thousands of devoted fans, many wearing Black Sabbath shirts and chanting “Ozzy! Ozzy! Ozzy!”, gathered to pay their respects. Some played his music from portable speakers, turning the moment into both a farewell and celebration.
Family Farewell
The Osbourne family, his widow Sharon and children Kelly, Aimee, and Jack, paused to honor him at the memorial bridge, placing flowers and absorbing the outpouring of love. Sharon, visibly tearful, offered a peace sign to the crowd as gratitude.
Mayor Zafar Iqbal of Birmingham underscored Ozzy’s unique bond with the city, calling him “more than a music legend, he was a son of Birmingham,” and praising the respectful, dignified tribute organized by the city and his family.
Logistics & Access
Broad Street was closed from 7 am, with roadblocks, bus and tram diversions in effect. Heavy security and stewards managed the crowds, while fans unable to attend could watch a live stream of the Black Sabbath bench.
Legacy and Farewell Performance
Ozzy Osbourne died on July 22 at age 76, just weeks after headlining Black Sabbath’s farewell reunion concert, staged at Villa Park on July 5. The concert raised approximately £140 million for charity, and marked the final performance of both Osbourne and the original band lineup.
His final show and public tribute celebrated not only his music but also his connection to Birmingham, where he started as a working-class artist and helped shape a genre.
At a Glance
Detail Highlights
Date of Procession July 30, 2025, starting at ~1 pm BST
Route Broad Street → Black Sabbath Bridge/bench
Accompaniment Live brass by Bostin’ Brass
Fan Engagement Thousands cheering, playing music, leaving tributes
Family Participation Sharon and the children visibly emotional while laying flowers
City’s Role Birmingham officials helped coordinate the public tribute and closures
Why It Matters
Ozzy Osbourne wasn’t just a rock pioneer—he was a cultural symbol deeply tied to his roots in working-class Birmingham. From his early days with Black Sabbath to his famed solo career and unconventional media presence, he resonated as a rebellious yet humble force of nature. The farewell procession—marked by warmth, music, grief, and gratitude, echoed the impact he left on fans worldwide and the place he always called home.