Wayne Osmond’s cause of death confirmed after iconic singer tragically dies aged 74
Wayne Osmond, a founding member of The Osmonds and brother of Donny and Marie, died aged 73 on New Year’s Day – with his cause of death now being confirmed.
The singer and guitarist passed away at a Salt Lake City hospital, his brother Merrill Osmond confirmed.
The star was the second-oldest of the original Osmond Brothers singers and was the first of the nine Osmond siblings to pass away.
His family announced his death in an emotional statement to local ABC affiliate KTVX, confirming he died “peacefully” whilst surrounded by loved ones, with his wife Kathlyn Louise White being by his side during his final moments.
His daughter Amy Cook confirmed he was surrounded by “his loving wife and five children” when he passed.
Wayne had battled significant health challenges throughout his life, having first experienced problems whilst touring with his brothers in 1994.
He told Coping magazine: “One day when I was working in Branson, I noticed I couldn’t play my saxophone anymore because my head would start throbbing.”
In 1997, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, requiring a 17-hour surgery followed by weeks of radiation therapy – however, the treatment damaged his cochlea, leaving Wayne nearly deaf.
A stroke in 2012 left him unable to play guitar, twelve years before the massive stroke that caused his death.
The family’s statement highlighted his enduring legacy: “His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter have influenced the lives of many people around the world.”
They added a touching personal note about Wayne: “He would want everyone to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, that families are forever, and that banana splits are the best dessert.”
Upon hearing the news, his brother Merrill immediately drove to the hospital and “was able to say [his] goodbyes.”
His health initially deteriorated when he noticed his “knees would fall out from under me when I was on stage”.
Tributes from Wayne’s siblings poured in following his passing.
Donny Osmond wrote on social media: “My dear brother Wayne passed away peacefully last night from a stroke. Wayne brought so much light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him, especially me. He was the ultimate optimist and was loved by everyone.”
Jay Osmond shared a particularly emotional tribute, saying he “always felt the most connected to Wayne out of all of my siblings.”
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“What gives me joy is to know that my brother Wings has earned his wings and I can only imagine the heights he is soaring right now,” Jay added.
Merrill Osmond described his brother as “a saint,” adding there would be “a massive celebration beyond anything we can imagine” on the other side.
Wayne was an original member of The Osmonds alongside siblings Alan, Wayne, Merrill and Jay, with Donny joining later – leaving the group to rise to prominence in the 1960s after performing at Disneyland.