Ozzy Osbourne’s Sisters Share Last Moments with Him at Farewell Concert
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The late rock legend Ozzy Osbourne’s sisters, Jean Powell and Gillian Hemming, revealed that they last saw their beloved brother at his final concert with Black Sabbath in England on July 5. This emotional reunion took place just a few weeks before Osbourne’s unexpected passing on Tuesday, July 22. The sisters, Iris Osbourne, Gillian Osbourne, and Jean Osbourne, reflected on their time with Ozzy, whom they affectionately called John, sharing intimate details of their final interactions with him at the concert.
Powell, aged 85, and Hemming, aged 80, expressed their shock and sorrow upon hearing the news of Osbourne’s death at the age of 76. Powell mentioned that they were grateful he passed away in England, although the details surrounding his death remain unclear. The sisters reminisced about receiving text messages from Osbourne as he drove down Lodge Road, near their childhood home, expressing his disbelief at the crowds gathering to watch him perform. Despite his frailty, Osbourne retained his sense of humour and charisma, leaving a lasting impression on his sisters.
The Osbourne family confirmed the sad news of Ozzy’s passing on July 22 in a statement to PEOPLE, revealing that he was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments. Powell and Hemming recounted the heartbreaking phone call they received informing them of their brother’s death, making him the third sibling to have passed away out of six. The sisters highlighted that to them, Ozzy was not just a celebrity but a cherished brother, emphasising the disbelief they felt over his sudden departure and the void left by his absence.
Following his final performance with Black Sabbath in Birmingham on July 5, where he sat on a bat-themed throne due to his struggle with Parkinson’s disease, Osbourne’s sisters described their brief yet emotional time spent with him at the concert. Powell emotionally recalled breaking down upon seeing the massive crowd waiting to see Osbourne perform, reflecting on their pride in his accomplishments and his down-to-earth nature that endeared him to fans worldwide.
Despite his legendary status in the music industry, Powell and Hemming emphasised that Osbourne remained true to himself and never let fame change him. They marvelled at the outpouring of love and tributes from fans following his passing, acknowledging the impact he had on countless lives. His sisters expressed their disbelief at the finality of his death, highlighting the regular communication they shared with him and the void created by his absence.
Ozzy Osbourne’s death marks the end of an era in rock music, with his unique voice and iconic performances leaving an indelible mark on the industry. His sisters’ heartfelt recollections offer a glimpse into the personal side of the legendary rocker, showcasing a man who, despite his fame, remained grounded and devoted to his family. As fans mourn the loss of a music icon, the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne lives on through his timeless music and the memories shared by those closest to him.