Singer Wayne Osmond, brother of Donny and Marie Osmond, passes away at 73
Wayne Osmond, the well-known singer from the family music group The Osmonds, has passed away at the age of 73.
The death was confirmed by Tracey Beaumont, a representative for Wayne’s brother, Merrill Osmond, in an email to YSL News on Thursday. The specifics surrounding his passing have not been revealed.
Osmond, who was the brother of pop stars Donny and Marie Osmond, “passed away peacefully” with his family by his side, as reported by Osmond’s family to ABC News affiliate ABC4 and Fox News affiliate Fox 13.
“His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter have touched many lives globally,” the family shared. “He would want everyone to be aware that the gospel of Jesus Christ is genuine, that families can be together forever, and that banana splits are the ultimate dessert. We cherish him and will miss him profoundly.”
Merrill and Jay Osmond, two of Wayne’s brothers, expressed their sorrow over his death on social media. Merrill shared on Facebook that Wayne had suffered a “massive stroke” prior to his passing.
Merrill, who is 71, described Wayne as a saintly figure, stating, “I’ve never met anyone with such humility. He was a person with a kind heart, quick to forgive and capable of unconditional love toward everyone he encountered.”
He also noted: “Although this is a sad moment for some, for those waiting for him in the afterlife, a tremendous celebration will take place beyond our imagination.”
Jay, at 69, shared on Facebook that he felt a close bond with Wayne among their siblings. He recalled their time together saying, “He was my roommate and my confidant over many years. Just last week, while visiting him at home, he expressed sorrow about not being able to fly anymore, which always brought him great joy.”
He added, “What comforts me is knowing that my brother ‘Wings’ has earned his wings, and I can only imagine how high he is flying now. The reunion he must have had with our parents was undoubtedly spectacular!”
Donny Osmond honors his ‘dear brother’ Wayne
Donny Osmond paid his respects to his “dear brother Wayne” in an Instagram tribute on Thursday, which included a nostalgic black-and-white photo of Wayne. Donny revealed that he visited Wayne in the hospital shortly before his death.
“Wayne brought immense joy, laughter, and love to everyone, especially to me. He was the embodiment of optimism and held a special place in the hearts of many,” Donny expressed. “I believe I speak for all of us siblings when I say how lucky we were to have Wayne as our brother.”
He closed with: “Although we may be apart in this life, I trust that through the grace and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we will have the chance to be reunited with Wayne for all eternity.”
Wayne Osmond’s Rise to Fame with The Osmonds
The Osmonds began their journey as a barbershop quartet in 1958 in Ogden, Utah, where Wayne and his brothers Alan, Merrill, and Jay first performed. Later, their younger siblings Donny and Jimmy joined the group, while sister Marie pursued a solo career in country music during the early 1970s.
During a performance at Disneyland, the group caught the attention of Jay Williams, who was the father of singer and talk-show host Andy Williams. He invited The Osmonds to perform on his variety show in 1962. The group went on to appear regularly on “The Andy Williams Show,” gracing over 20 episodes from 1962 to 1966, according to IMDb.
As their careers progressed, The Osmonds shifted toward a more rock-oriented sound, beginning with their 1972 album “Phase III,” where Wayne took on the role of lead guitarist.
Their success slowed in the mid-’70s This follows the debut of Donny and Marie’s variety show, “Donny & Marie,” which aired on ABC from 1976 to 1979. According to IMDb, Osmond made appearances in four episodes of the program.
Osmond, a committed Christian, was part of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as are all his family members.
“My brother Wayne went through a lot. He put in tremendous effort,” Merrill Osmond shared on Facebook. “His legacy will be remembered as that of a musical genius who touched the hearts of countless individuals and drew them nearer to God.”