Mourners line streets of Birmingham ahead of Ozzy Osbourne's funeral
Last week, the musician – real name John Osbourne – died on July 22 at the age of 76, after a long battle with Parkinson's and other health problems. No official cause of death has been given.
His family shared a statement confirming his death, writing: 'It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.'
His death came just weeks after he appeared on stage for the final time, during the Back to the Beginning concert in Birmingham on July 5.
Osbourne will again be honoured in his home city today. Growing up in Aston, the musician will today be laid to rest nearby.
His cortege will travel along Broad Street in the city centre from 1pm, making its way towards Black Sabbath Bridge, which has been covered with flowers and tributes to him.
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For those unable to attend, the live stream of the Black Sabbath bench is operating online here.
'We're going to pay our last respects and homage to one of the greatest living legends of Birmingham,' Lord Mayor of Birmingham Zafar Iqbal said yesterday.
'He put Birmingham on the map. He put Aston on the map.'
He continued: 'Ozzy was more than a music legend – he was a son of Birmingham. Having recently been awarded the Freedom of the City and following his celebrated appearance at Back to the Beginning at Aston Villa earlier this month, it was important to the city that we support a fitting, dignified tribute ahead of a private family funeral. More Trending
'We know how much this moment will mean to his fans. We're proud to host it here with the Osbourne family in the place where it all began, and we are grateful that they have generously offered to pay to enable this to happen and support the city is giving him the farewell he deserves.'
The procession will include music performed by local group Bostin' Brass as Ozzy makes one final trip through his hometown.
The Osbourne family will also be in attendance, with a private funeral set to take place after the procession.
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