Farewell to the Prince of Darkness: Ozzy Osbourne Laid to Rest in a Private Ceremony
On a quiet afternoon in Buckinghamshire, the world said goodbye to one of rock and roll’s most iconic voices. Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary “Prince of Darkness,” was laid to rest beside the lake on the sprawling 250-acre grounds of his countryside estate.
The private ceremony was attended by just over 110 of his closest friends and family, including his beloved wife Sharon Osbourne and children Jack, Kelly, Amy, and Louis, the latter from Ozzy’s first marriage to Thelma Riley. Guests were greeted with a simple black invitation featuring a cross and the words: “In Loving Memory of Ozzy Osbourne.”
Among the mourners were Marilyn Manson, Sir Elton John, Metallica’s James Hetfield, Yungblud, and Ozzy’s Black Sabbath bandmates, all paying their final respects to the man whose voice helped define generations of heavy metal. Guests were transported from nearby hotels in Gerrards Cross to the Osbourne home, where the service began at 3 p.m.
Inside the family estate, walls were adorned with photographs of Ozzy, capturing moments from his wild stage life and tender family memories. Each guest received a small keepsake: a photograph of Ozzy to carry home, a token of remembrance for the man who gave his all to music and family alike.
By the lake, a simple wreath read boldly: “Ozzy F*ing Osbourne.”** It was a farewell as raw and unforgettable as the man himself. Friends shared stories and tributes from a stage set up under white tents, turning grief into a celebration of life and legacy. A family friend described the farewell as “a very fitting goodbye—full of love, respect, and the spirit of Ozzy.”
The private service followed a public memorial in Birmingham, where thousands of fans gathered earlier this week at the Black Sabbath Bridge to honor the heavy metal legend. Sharon Osbourne was visibly emotional as she read some of the heartfelt messages left by fans.
For those still wishing to pay tribute, a book of condolence has been opened at Aston Villa’s Villa Park, the stadium where Ozzy made his final homecoming performance just weeks ago.
As the sun set over the quiet lake in Buckinghamshire, the world of rock fell silent for a moment. And yet, somewhere beyond the still waters, the echo of Ozzy Osbourne’s voice seems to linger—loud, defiant, and eternal.