**Ozzy Osbourne to Receive Grand Farewell as Fans Invited to Final Procession in Birmingham**
Birmingham is preparing to bid a final, heartfelt farewell to one of its most iconic sons, Ozzy Osbourne, following his death last week at the age of 76. Best known as the legendary frontman of Black Sabbath and a trailblazer of the heavy metal movement, Osbourne’s legacy will be honoured in a public procession through his home city on Wednesday.
According to an announcement from Birmingham City Council, Osbourne’s funeral cortege will travel alongside his close family through familiar city streets from 1pm, beginning its journey towards Broad Street—a location steeped in musical history. Joining them will be the Bostin Brass band, ensuring a fittingly grand and poignant accompaniment to the procession.
A key moment during the event will be the cortege’s stop at the famed Black Sabbath bridge and accompanying bench. This now iconic landmark, dedicated to the seminal band Osbourne led to worldwide fame, has already become a focal point for fans paying tribute. Since his passing, thousands have flocked to the site, leaving flowers, messages and mementoes in a remarkable show of affection and remembrance.
Local officials expect the tribute to draw massive crowds as admirers of all generations travel to Birmingham for their chance to say goodbye. The day promises not only an opportunity for fans to unite in mourning but also to celebrate the indelible mark Osbourne has left on music, culture, and the collective identity of the city.
Birmingham’s Lord Mayor, Zafar Iqbal, emphasised both the significance of the event for the community and the city’s pride in honouring one of its brightest stars. “Ozzy was more than a music legend—he was a son of Birmingham,” the Lord Mayor commented. He reflected on the importance of ensuring a respectful and memorable send-off, highlighting Osbourne’s recent recognition with the Freedom of the City and his celebrated appearance earlier this month at the ‘Back to the Beginning’ concert at Villa Park.
The city council has worked swiftly alongside Osbourne’s family to coordinate the event, ensuring it offers a dignified public tribute while still respecting the family’s request for a private funeral ceremony. Details have been released to help manage large crowds and facilitate a respectful atmosphere. Broad Street, the centrepiece of the tribute, will be closed to traffic from 7am, with necessary diversions for both buses and trams to accommodate the influx of fans and well-wishers.
In a gesture of gratitude, Osbourne’s family has offered to finance the day’s proceedings, underlining their appreciation for the support Birmingham has shown their loved one over the years. Their involvement has been instrumental in shaping the commemoration, ensuring that it both honours Osbourne’s unique legacy and offers closure to the global community that followed his career.
Many music fans view the day as an unmissable opportunity to celebrate not only Osbourne’s part in shaping heavy metal but also his transformation from a Birmingham youth to an international icon. The city’s preparations and the expected turnout are testament to the deep connection Osbourne maintained with his roots, famous for championing Birmingham at every stage of his career.
As anticipation builds, city authorities are calling for patience and cooperation from attendees to make the day as safe and memorable as possible. Organisers are encouraging those who wish to pay their respects to arrive early and to follow local transport advice, as the city braces for what is expected to be one of the most significant public gatherings in its recent history.
Once the public event concludes, Osbourne’s family will hold a private funeral, allowing those closest to him to say their final farewells away from the spotlight. The day’s events will ensure the Black Sabbath icon’s extraordinary influence is recognised in the city that knew him first, as he takes his final journey home.