Ozzy Osbourne Funeral Tributes: Family Visits Black Sabbath Bench on Broad Street

Economic Times

4 days ago

Synopsis
Ozzy Osbourne funeral tributes are pouring in as family visited the Black Sabbath bench on Broad Street to honour fan tributes. Sharon, Kelly, Jack, and Ozzy's grandchildren acknowledged the public's support. The cortege passed murals and landmarks linked to Ozzy's career. Fans turned the event into a tribute celebration, echoing Ozzy's wish for a non-depressing farewell.
Reuters Crowds gather at the Black Sabbath Bridge, named in honour of the heavy metal band, as the funeral cortege of Ozzy Osbourne, its former frontman, passes through his hometown, in Birmingham, Britain, July 30, 2025. REUTERS/Jack Taylor Ozzy Osbourne funeral tributes are pouring in as family paid tribute at the Black Sabbath bench in Birmingham, where fans had gathered to honour the late music legend. The visit formed part of a larger farewell, which reflected both mourning and celebration, in line with Ozzy's wishes.The Osbourne family, including Sharon, Kelly, Jack, and Ozzy's grandchildren, visited the Black Sabbath bridge and bench on Broad Street. Sharon was visibly moved as she viewed thousands of messages left by fans. She was supported by her children on either side as they took a moment to reflect.
The bench has become a public memorial site since the news of Ozzy Osbourne's death. The family also left bouquets among the many tributes placed there by fans.The crowd gathered in large numbers, dressed in clothes paying tribute to Ozzy and Black Sabbath. Many wore band patches, spikes, flame designs, and tour merchandise. As the family arrived, fans chanted Ozzy's name and raised their hands in the devil horns symbol.In response, the Osbourne family acknowledged the crowd with peace signs. The interaction was brief but powerful, with the family spending about five minutes at the bench. They then got into their cars and continued the journey.
Earlier in the day, Ozzy's funeral cortege visited Aston and passed Villa Park, the site of his final public event. The route also included a stop near New Street Station, where a mural painted by Mr Murals remains on display. This artwork was created for the 'Back to the Beginning' concert held earlier in July.The mural served as another tribute point for fans. People lowered their phones during the procession and began chanting Ozzy's name.Sharon Osbourne was not only Ozzy's wife but also his longtime manager. She was actively involved in promoting his final concert at Villa Park. She spoke to fans, gave interviews, and appeared at multiple events in Birmingham.Although Ozzy did not appear often due to Parkinson's disease and spinal issues, he did receive the Freedom of the City and was involved in planning the farewell concert. Sharon spoke on his behalf and attended the gig's announcement with Tony Iommi.Sharon Osbourne was deeply involved in building Ozzy's career. In 2001, she told The Guardian that she created the Ozzfest festival after another music festival rejected Ozzy. The event ran from 1996 to 2018 and played a major role in keeping Ozzy connected with fans.In 2023, Sharon attended the unveiling of Birmingham's mechanical bull statue, which was named after Ozzy. In 2024, she posted a video interview with Ozzy discussing the Black Sabbath bench, highlighting its personal significance.
What did the Osbourne family do during their visit to the Black Sabbath bench?
They viewed tributes, placed bouquets, acknowledged fans with peace signs, and spent about five minutes before rejoining the cortege.
Why was the event considered a celebration and not just a mourning?
Ozzy had expressed he did not want a depressing funeral. Fans respected his wish by turning the farewell into a tribute celebration with music-themed outfits and chants.