Wayne Osmond, known for his role in the iconic Osmond family, has passed away at the age of 73.
The Osmonds’ rise to fame began when they were discovered by Andy Williams’ father while performing at Disneyland. During the 1960s, they became regular performers on “The Andy Williams Show” and later toured extensively throughout Europe. Over time, the group eventually went their separate ways as they pursued solo music careers.
Best known as the brother of Marie and Donny Osmond, stars of the 1970s variety show “Donny & Marie,” Wayne Osmond’s passing on New Year’s Day was confirmed by his family in an emotional statement.
Wayne Osmond Passes Away According To Family’s Statement
The Osmonds started as a barbershop quartet before rising to fame as “teen music idols.” They later went on to produce the popular TV series “The Osmond Family Show,” which was filmed in Orem.
“Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children,” the family’s statement obtained by local
ABC affiliate KTVX read.
“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,” the family added.
The Osmond Family Shares Heartfelt Tributes
Several of Wayne’s siblings have shared heartfelt tributes on social media to honor their brother. Jay Osmond expressed that throughout his life, he “always felt the most connected to Wayne out of all of my siblings.”
“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 said. “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.”
Merrill Osmond Speaks Out
Merrill Osmond shared more details, revealing that his brother suffered a “massive stroke.” He recounted rushing to the hospital upon hearing the news and expressed gratitude that he was able to be there to say his final goodbyes.
“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 said in
his post. “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.”
In 1997, Wayne was diagnosed with a brain tumor, which was successfully treated. However, he eventually retired from his music career due to a hearing impairment.
Wayne Osmond Got His Start At A Young Age
Wayne began performing at a young age alongside his brothers Alan, Merrill, and Jay in a barbershop quartet. Their big break came when Andy Williams’ father discovered them performing at Disneyland, leading to frequent appearances on “The Andy Williams Show” throughout the 1960s. Known for his talent as a vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter, Wayne played a key role in shaping the group’s sound.
As part of The Osmonds, Wayne contributed to hits like “One Bad Apple”, “Crazy Horses”, and “Love Me for a Reason.” The group evolved from barbershop harmony to pop-rock sensations and even ventured into television with shows like “The Donny & Marie Show” and “The Osmond Family Show,” filmed in Orem, Utah.
Wayne performed alongside his brothers Alan, Merrill, Jay, Donny, and Jimmy as part of the renowned barbershop group The Osmonds. Born in 1951 in Ogden, Utah, Wayne went on to have five children with his wife, Kathlyn Louise White, according to IMDb.
A native of Utah, Wayne was the second-oldest member of the original Osmond Brothers singing group and the fourth of the nine Osmond children.
Wayne Osmond is the first of the Osmond siblings to pass away. In 1974, Wayne married Kathlyn White, a former Miss Utah, and together they raised five children.
