**Ozzy Osbourne Remembered: A City Unites for Emotional Farewell**

A vibrant procession through Birmingham highlights the deep affection and admiration fans held for the heavy metal legend during his send-off.

Ozzy Osbourne's final journey through his beloved Birmingham drew thousands of fans, united in heartache and celebration as the rock legend's family accompanied his coffin through the city streets. As mourners shouted his name, the atmosphere was electric, a fitting tribute for a man who had so profoundly impacted music and lives alike.

A tearful Sharon Osbourne was seen adding a delicate pink rose to the growing sea of tributes laid by devoted fans, comforted by children Kelly and Jack. The emotional procession began with a brass band performing classic Black Sabbath hits, while the coffin was transported in a hearse topped with a striking purple floral cross. A private funeral service is set to follow on Thursday, a week after Osbourne's passing at the age of 76.

The procession, which paused at significant locations like his childhood home and the historic Villa Park football ground—where he had recently performed to 40,000 fans—featured an array of onlookers proudly displaying their support in T-shirts and scarves. Crowds showered the procession with flowers and launched into lyrical reminiscences, creating a joyous yet poignant atmosphere.

One particularly emotional moment took place at Black Sabbath Bridge, where family members laid flowers at a makeshift memorial adorned with tributes that included empty beer bottles and bat-shaped balloons, nodding to the infamous 1982 incident when Osbourne bit the head off a bat during a performance. Each family member, supported by their loved ones, took a moment to reflect on the legacy of Ozzy.

Passionate fans expressed a wide array of emotions, contending it was a mix of celebration and sorrow. "This is about respect for Ozzy, about celebrating the good times," shared Pete Coles, reflecting on the collective nostalgia and spirited camaraderie. Many traveled long distances, driven by a belief that icons like Osbourne are irreplaceable, both in music and in persona.

As the cortege continued to weave through the streets of Birmingham, spectators cheered and displayed love for both Ozzy and his family. The lasting impact of Osbourne's career as 'rock's prince of darkness' was palpable, as heartfelt messages adorned electronic billboards proclaiming, "Ozzy forever, Birmingham Will Always Love You." This tribute marks the closing of a remarkable chapter, celebrating a life that changed music and touched countless souls.