Wayne Osmond: Singer, guitarist from chart-topping pop group The Osmonds dies aged 73
Wayne Osmond, who sang with his brothers in the chart-topping pop group The Osmonds, has died aged 73, his family says.
The US singer, best known for tracks such as Crazy Horses, Love Me For A Reason and Let Me In, was remembered by his daughter Amy Cook as a “beloved husband and father” when she announced his death on Thursday.
“Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children,” she said in a Facebook post.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.“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.”
Osmond began his career in 1958 when he formed a barber shop quartet with his brothers Alan, Merrill and Jay, before later being joined by younger siblings Donny and Jimmy, who later enjoyed solo success, to form The Osmonds.
On Facebook, his brother Jay posted in tribute to the singer: “A true legend has left the Earth. 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.”
Another of the brothers, Merrill, added: “I’ve never known a man that had more humility. A man with (absolutely) 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.
“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.”
The group, all of whom were born in Ogden, Utah (with the exception of Jimmy who was born in Canoga Park, California), became teen idols, selling more than 77 million records worldwide and having five UK top 10 singles, including a number one in Love Me For A Reason, and four UK top 10 albums.
Osmond, who arranged the group’s harmonies after being found to have perfect pitch and also played lead guitar in the group, retired from the band due to health issues in 2007.
In 1997, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour, which was successfully treated, but this damaged his cochlea, leaving Osmond nearly deaf, before a stroke in 2012 left him unable to play guitar.
In 1974 he married Kathlyn White and had five children.
