Ozzy Osbourne funeral plans unveiled as singer outlined wishes for send-off before death aged 76
The legendary Black Sabbath vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away on Tuesday at 76, is understood to have made explicit requests about his final farewell years before his death.
The Birmingham-born musician, whose family announced his passing last night, emphasised he wanted his send-off to be a joyful occasion rather than a mournful event.
Speaking in 2011, the rock icon stressed to The Times there should be “no harping on the bad times” at his service.
He viewed his funeral as an opportunity for gratitude, acknowledging that many endure hardship throughout their lives whilst he had enjoyed extraordinary fortune as a rock star.
The heavy metal pioneer specifically rejected the notion of a “mope-fest,” insisting the occasion should celebrate his life rather than dwell on sorrow.
When discussing his musical preferences for the service, Osbourne revealed in 2016 in a touching confession that he favoured The Beatles’ A Day In The Life for his funeral.
He told NME he would prefer tracks from Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band or Revolver, firmly stating: “I definitely don’t want my f***ing greatest hits album – I never ever play that thing, I’m f***ing embarrassed about it.”
The musician, who credited The Beatles with inspiring his own career after hearing She Loves You in 1964, was adamant about avoiding upbeat tracks.
“I definitely don’t want a f***ing happy song – I’m dead,” he declared.
Despite the gravity of funeral planning, Osbourne approached the topic with characteristic wit.
He told The Times he was indifferent to the musical selections, joking: “I honestly don’t care what they play at my funeral; they can put on a medley of Justin Bieber, Susan Boyle and We Are the Diddymen if it makes ’em happy.”
The performer’s humorous nature extended to considering posthumous pranks.
He contemplated arranging a video appearance where he would request a second medical opinion about his death, aiming to bring smiles to mourners’ faces.
This lighthearted approach reflected Osbourne’s personality throughout his career.
His primary concern remained ensuring attendees found happiness during the service, prioritising their comfort over traditional funeral conventions.
The rock legend’s death occurred mere weeks after his emotional final performance with Black Sabbath at Birmingham’s Villa Park.
The reunion concert, titled Back to the Beginning, saw Osbourne perform from a throne alongside original bandmates Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler and Bill Ward.
His family confirmed his passing with a statement: “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.”
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The statement, signed by Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis, requested privacy during their bereavement.
Whilst the family has not yet disclosed funeral arrangements, Osbourne’s previously expressed wishes suggest a celebration befitting the metal icon’s remarkable life.