Wayne Osmond, the beloved singer and guitarist of the iconic family band The Osmonds, passed away on January 1, 2025, at the age of 73 following a massive stroke. His death, confirmed by family members, took place at a hospital in Salt Lake City, where he was surrounded by loved ones during his final moments.
His brother, Donny Osmond, shared poignant thoughts on social media, stating, "My dear brother Wayne passed away peacefully last night from a stroke. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to visit him before he passed. Wayne brought so much light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him, especially me. He was the ultimate optimist and was loved by everyone." Donny added, "I’m sure I speak on behalf of every one of us siblings when I state we were fortunate to have Wayne as a brother." The deeply emotional post reflected the strong bond shared among the Osmond siblings.
Merrill Osmond also took to Facebook to express his grief, writing, "I’ve never known a man with more humility. A man with absolutely no guile. An individual who was quick to forgive and had the ability to show unconditional love to everyone he ever met." These heartfelt remembrances painted Wayne not just as a talented musician, but as someone whose character left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.
Wayne was born on August 28, 1951, and was one of the nine Osmond siblings raised in Ogden, Utah, within the faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The family’s musical career began when Wayne and his brothers—Alan, Merrill, and Jay—sang as a barbershop quartet, eventually adding younger brothers Donny and Jimmy along the way. Their unique blend of harmonies led to breakthrough moments, such as their performance on The Andy Williams Show, which paved the way for their rise to stardom.
Throughout the early 1970s, The Osmonds enjoyed significant commercial success, with several hits such as "One Bad Apple," which captivated audiences and showcased their Pop and Rock sound. Wayne was pivotal as both singer and guitarist, contributing to the group's distinctive musical style. The Osmonds were often compared to contemporary groups, including the Jackson 5, where Wayne's talent on guitar and vocals set him apart.
Sadly, the band’s popularity waned by the later part of the 1970s, but they made a comeback in the 1980s as they transitioned to country music, proving their versatility. Despite challenges, such as Wayne's 1995 diagnosis of ependymoma—a type of brain tumor—he remained dedicated to his craft. After undergoing surgery and radiation, he returned to performing, reflecting on how the experience reshaped his perspective on life. Wayne once shared, "It really opened up my eyes. It made me realize life is really important. I'm very blessed. That's what I am."
History would not be kind as Wayne faced additional health issues, including losing much of his hearing from treatment and suffering from a stroke in 2012 which left him unable to play guitar. Yet, he remained dedicated to family and music, last appearing publicly with his brothers during their sister Marie's birthday celebration just last year.
The Osmonds held strong ties to their faith and regularly shared messages of unity and love within their music. Wayne's daughter, Amy, expressed her sorrow via Facebook, calling him not just her father but also her “twin” who shared countless wonderful memories with the family. She noted, "I am grateful for his strength, loyalty to our family, incredible talent and energy, and most of all, his love."
An outpouring of condolences not only from family but also fans highlight Wayne Osmond’s enduring legacy. The Osmond family collectively stated, "His legacy of faith, music, love and laughter has influenced the lives of many people around the world," ensuring Wayne's spirit continues to resonate with audiences.
Jay Osmond, Wayne's brother, also shared memories, noting, "What gives me joy is to know my brother 'Wings' has earned his wings and I can only image the heights he is soaring right now. The reunion he must've had with Father and Mother I'm sure was spectacular!" Words of healing and reunion reflect the prominent faith followed by the Osmonds and their belief in eternal family connections.
Wayne Osmond’s influence as part of The Osmonds will be remembered not only through their timeless music but also through the love and values they ingrained both personally and collectively as a family. The world has lost a musical star, but his legacy as both musician and family man endures.