Wayne Osmond, a founding member of family band The Osmonds, died aged 73 on January 1, 2025, his family announced.
“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,” Donny, 67, wrote on Instagram. “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.”
Wayne Osmond’s other brother, Merrill Osmond, wrote his late brother was “a genius in his ability to write music” who was “able to capture the hearts of millions of people and bring them closer to God.”
He continued: “I’ve never known a man that had more humility. 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.”
A per the family members, Wayne Osmond died of a stroke.
Jay Osmond, 69, also paid tribute to Wayne, calling his brother “a true legend.”
“My heart is deeply saddened for the loss of my brother Wayne. It is said that where there is great love there is great grief as we part during our earthly journey,” Jay wrote. “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.”
Wayne Osmond was born on August 28, 1949, in Ogden, Utah. He was the fourth child of nine children. His music career started back in the 60’s when he and his brothers performed on The Andy Williams Show.
The band he and his siblings formed, The Osmonds, gained worldwide fame during the 70’s, with hit songs such as One Bad Apple, Crazy Horses, and Love Me for a Reason.
The members became teen idols. Screaming crowds were anticipating each of their new single, album, and performance, creating a frenzy known as the Osmondmania.
Wayne Osmong, alongside performing, contributed to the group as a co-writer, penning several beloved songs, including tracks from The Plan, an ambitious concept album inspired by their faith as members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Wayne was married to wife Kathlyn Louise White, a former Miss Utah. They had five children together.
In the past, Wayne experienced health issues. In 1997, doctors diagnosed him with a brain tumor. He, however, showed incredible strength and resilience and beat the disease.
He continued performing occasionally.
In 2012, he had a stoke that left him unable to play the guitar.
Fans and fellow musicians paid their tributes to the man who left an immense impact in the world of music. May he rest in peace.
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