Fans Gather to Honor Ozzy Osbourne in Birmingham Procession

UPDATE: Fans are gathering in Birmingham today to bid farewell to heavy metal icon Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away at the age of 76 last Tuesday. The funeral procession is set to begin at 1 PM, making its way down Broad Street to the iconic Black Sabbath bench and bridge.

This poignant tribute comes just weeks after Osbourne’s farewell concert on July 5, where he shared the stage with legendary acts like Metallica and Guns N’ Roses. As the hearse proceeds through the city, a live brass band will accompany the cortege, creating a fitting atmosphere for the beloved musician.

Fans have already left heartfelt messages and floral tributes around the Black Sabbath mural on Navigation Street. These outpourings of love highlight the significant impact Osbourne had not only on music but also on his hometown of Birmingham, where he was born in the Aston area.

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery has opened a book of condolences for the public to sign, coinciding with its exhibit titled Ozzy Osbourne (1948-2025): Working Class Hero. Birmingham City Council collaborated closely with Osbourne’s family to organize the procession, with the family covering all associated costs.

Lord Mayor Zafar Iqbal emphasized the importance of this tribute, stating, “Ozzy was more than a music legend – he was a son of Birmingham.” He added, “We’re proud to host it here with his loving family in the place where it all began.”

To accommodate the procession, Broad Street will be closed to through traffic starting at 7 AM, with public transport services adjusted accordingly until the road reopens post-event. This carefully planned tribute aims to honor Osbourne’s legacy and the profound connection he had with his fans.

Osbourne, a pioneering figure in heavy metal, along with his bandmates in Black Sabbath—Geezer Butler, Tony Iommi, and Bill Ward—recently received the Freedom of the City of Birmingham, recognizing their contributions to music and culture. Fans and admirers are encouraged to join today’s procession to pay their respects and celebrate the life of a true musical legend.

As the city prepares for this emotional farewell, many are reflecting on Osbourne’s journey from a working-class upbringing in Birmingham to global superstardom. His influence extended beyond music, touching the hearts of millions, particularly through the reality show The Osbournes, which introduced his family dynamics to a new generation.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the procession unfolds, and join the conversation on social media using #OzzyOsbourneFarewell.