Culture Craze

Ozzy Osbourne’s Final Journey: Birmingham Bids an Emotional Farewell

Published

2 months ago

July 31, 2025

Chiraag

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The streets of the UK’s second city were lined with fans, young and old, as Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath, took his final journey home. His funeral procession, which followed his death on 22 July at the age of 76, was as grand and emotional as the music he left behind.

Music, memory, and a city in mourning

Starting at Villa Park, where Ozzy played his last ever show on 5 July, the funeral car moved slowly through Birmingham. A large purple floral cross adorned the vehicle as fans tossed red roses onto it. The Bostin’ Brass band led the way, performing Black Sabbath and solo Ozzy classics that echoed through the streets.

Fans chanted his name and broke into song, showing that for many, this was more than just a celebrity farewell. It was the loss of a cultural icon who had helped define a sound, a city, and a generation.

Black Sabbath Bridge: A symbolic stop

The procession paused at Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street, a landmark named in honour of the band that started it all. Balloons, handwritten tributes, and flowers covered the area.

Mayor Zafar Iqbal was present to read the messages and speak with fans, many of whom had travelled far to be part of this moment. Then came Ozzy’s family, Sharon, Jack, Kelly, and Aimee Osbourne, who stepped out to see the tributes. Sharon, overcome with emotion, held onto Kelly’s hand as she wiped away tears. When the crowd cheered, she offered them peace signs through her grief.

The road back to Aston

Just before 1pm, the procession made a deeply symbolic stop at Lodge Road in Aston, the street where Ozzy grew up. This unassuming neighbourhood home was where the rock legend first found his voice, long before fame, fortune, and global tours.

Fans lined the pavement to honour that beginning, placing mementoes near the gate and capturing photos of the place that birthed a global phenomenon.

A private funeral for a public hero

While the streets swelled with fans, the funeral itself was private. Attendees reportedly include Sir Elton John, Metallica members, Ozzy’s Black Sabbath bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward, and younger artists like Yungblud.

The family released a statement shortly after Ozzy’s death:
“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.”

A life loud and unforgettable

Ozzy Osbourne was more than a rockstar. He was a rebel, an innovator, and a symbol of resilience. From biting off bat heads to becoming a reality TV favourite, he always defied expectations and won hearts along the way.

Now, Birmingham has said goodbye. But for the fans chanting his name and the speakers still blasting “Paranoid,” Ozzy’s voice won’t fade anytime soon.