Ozzy's Final Encore!

Today, thousands gathered along Birmingham’s Broad Street to bid farewell to one of the city’s most iconic sons, Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away just over a week ago on July 22, at the age of 76.

Just like Ozzy, the funeral procession was both emotional and electrifying. A hearse carrying Ozzy’s casket made its way down Broad Street, trailed by six vehicles carrying close family members. A New Orleans-style brass band, the Bostin’ Brass, played a final musical moment of Black Sabbath classics, including “Iron Man” and “Paranoid,” as fans chanted “Ozzy! Ozzy! Ozzy! Oi! Oi! Oi!”

Many showed their love for Ozzy with homemade signs reading “Prince of Darkness Forever” and “Thank You, Ozzy.” The procession paused at the Black Sabbath Bridge, where Ozzy’s wife Sharon, along with their children Kelly, Jack, Aimee, and Louis, laid flowers at the commemorative bench bearing Ozzy’s name. Sharon wore his wedding ring around her neck.

Ozzy had one wish about his funeral. Don’t make it a “mope-fest!”. It definitely wasn’t. It was a celebration of his life and career! Fans swapped memories, sang lyrics, and raised the rock horns in salute. Local officials called it one of the most significant public tributes Birmingham has ever seen.

As the cortege turned the final corner toward a private ceremony, the crowd fell into a reverent hush—then erupted in applause and one last chorus of “Crazy Train.”

Ozzy’s final ride, like his life and music, was unforgettable! He will always be remembered as a man who lived his life to the fullest and enjoyed the ride. Thank you, Ozzy, for letting us ride shotgun.

This isn’t goodbye.

So long, Ozzy, till we rock again.

Doug O’Brien