Wayne Osmond, a member of the iconic music group The Osmonds, has sadly passed away aged 73. He died peacefully on New Year’s Day surrounded by loved ones, including his wife and five children.
In a heart-breaking statement to KTVX, his family said: “His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter have influenced the lives of many people around the world. 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.”
Born in Utah in 1951, Wayne rose to fame with his brothers as part of a barbershop quartet. He played a crucial role in the band’s success in the 1970s, initially featuring brothers Alan, Wayne, Merrill, and Jay.
The group, originally known as the Osmond Brothers, later changed their name to The Osmonds after younger siblings Donny and Jimmy joined, according to the Mirror. Both Donny and Jimmy also achieved success as solo artists, in addition to their sister, Marie.
Following Wayne’s passing, Donny shared a heartfelt statement on Instagram, revealing that his brother had died from a stroke. The incident came just 13 years after Wayne suffered his first stroke in 2012, which left him unable to play the guitar.
Yesterday, Donny wrote: “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.”
Merrill also released a statement after his brother’s death. “I’ve never known a man that had more humility,” it read, as per a Sky News report. “A man with absolute no guile. An individual that was quick to forgive and had the ability to show unconditional love to everyone he ever met.”