Why was Ozzy's funeral in Birmingham? “Birthplace of Heavy Metal” legacy explored as family and fans pay tribute

Ozzy Osbourne was laid to rest in Birmingham, which he often called "home."

The Prince of Darkness died on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson's disease. His funeral was held on July 30, with several of his friends and family in attendance, alongside his devoted legion of fans. It was reportedly a joint effort between Birmingham City Council and the Osbourne family.

The heavy metal legend grew up in Birmingham, where a memorial statue of him stands. His wife, Sharon Osbourne, was seen alighting a car at one point alongside her children to place a flower at the memorial. Distractify has reported that because of the late rocker, the city has long been known as the "birthplace of metal."

The details of Ozzy Osbourne's final resting place explored

According to NBC News, Black Sabbath fans flocked to Birmingham’s Broad Street that same day as Ozzy Osbourne's hearse traversed through the streets.

Chants of "Ozzy, Ozzy!" echoed through the city until the procession came to a halt at the Black Sabbath bench, which the city dedicated to the legendary band in 2019. Six cars with his family, including Sharon, and friends followed the van.

Osbourne founded the band in 1968 alongside the other original bandmates, and it is largely credited with paving the way for the heavy metal genre. The Guardian has reported that the legendary pub where the band played their first gig still holds its celebrity status. Now known as “one-of-a-kind” and “the birthplace of heavy metal," The Crown on Station Street was listed at Grade II by the Department for Culture in March 2024, after thousands of fans rallied to have it saved, thereby designating it as:

“A site of civic pride, cultural value and historic asset."

Zafar Iqbal, a city official, told CNN:

“Ozzy was more than a music legend — he was a son of Birmingham. We know how much this moment will mean to his fans.”

During the funeral procession, Sharon Osbourne and her kids, Aimee, Jack, and Kelly, put up a united front as the latter three flanked their wailing mother. They were seen at several points stepping out of a black car, with the matriarch clad in a black floor-length dress. The family also acknowledged the fans, many of whom came with signs and flowers.

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