SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Jan. 2, 2025 (Gephardt Daily) — Wayne Osmond, one of the original members of the famed musical group The Osmonds, has died at age 73.
Word of Osmond’s passing came by way of a statement shared by family members Thursday.
“Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children. His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter have influenced the lives of many people around the world,” the family statement said.
“He would want everyone to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, that families are forever, and that banana splits are the best dessert. We love him and will miss him dearly.”
Donny Osmond reflected on his brother’s loss in a post on social media.
“My dear brother Wayne passed away peacefully last night from a stroke.
“I’m so grateful that I had the opportunity to visit him in the hospital 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.
“I’m sure I speak on behalf of every one of us siblings when I state that we were fortunate to have Wayne as a brother.
“Even though we are separated in this mortal life, I know that by the grace and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we will have the opportunity to be with Wayne for eternity.
“I love you, Wayne.
“Your brother forever,
“Donny.”
Merrill Osmond, another founding member the iconic music group, posted his own message on social media, remembering his brother as a loving soul and a gifted songwriter.
“My brother was a saint before he came into this world, and he will leave as an even greater saint than he came in,” Merrill wrote.
“I’ve never known a man that had more humility. A man with absolute(ly) no guile. An individual that was quick to forgive and had the ability to show unconditional love to everyone he ever met.
“His departure from this earth will be a sad moment for some, but for those who are waiting for him on the other side, there will be a massive celebration beyond anything we can imagine.
“My brother Wayne endured much. He gave it his all. His legacy will go down as someone who was not only a genius in his ability to write music, but was able to capture the hearts of millions of people and bring them closer to God.
“I will miss him tremendously. I am so grateful to have grown up with one of heavenly father‘s greatest sons.
“Until I see him again, know that he was loved.”
Wayne, and three of his nine siblings, Allen, Merrill and Jay started in show business in 1958, part of the barbershop quartet known as The Osmond Brothers.
In 1962, they joined the cast of NBC’s The Andy Williams Show, after being discovered while singing at Disneyland.
In 1963, Donny joined the group at age five, followed by three-year old Jimmy in 1967. Sister Marie also made appearances on the show.
Four years after Jimmy’s debut, the group topped the Billboard Hot 100 with the number one song “One Bad Apple.” The smash hit propelled them to super stardom and was the true launching point of a pop music career which would last for decades.
While Donny and Marie ultimately became mega-stars in their own right, The Osmonds performed together throughout the 1980s.
Wayne ultimately endured a number of health issues, including a brain tumor diagnosis in the late 1990s. In 2012, he suffered a stroke and was no longer able to play the guitar.
Jay Osmond also spoke of Wayne’s passing Thursday, and of the special bond they shared as brothers.
“It is said that where there is great love there is great grief as we part during our earthly journey,” Jay wrote on social media.
“Throughout my life I have always felt most connected to Wayne out of all of my siblings. He was my roommate and my confidant over the decades.
“As I sat visiting with him last week at his home he talked about how sad he was that he couldn’t get up in his plane anymore and how much flying brought him peace. What gives me joy is to know that my brother ‘Wings’ has earned his wings and I can only imagine the heights he is soaring right now.
“The reunion he must’ve had with Father and Mother I’m sure was spectacular!”
