One of the original members of the Osmond family singing group has died at 73.
Wayne Osmond’s passing was first reported by his older brother, Merrill Osmond, and confirmed by multiple outlets. According to Merrill, Wayne suffered a serious stroke on Jan. 1 and was rushed to a hospital near his home in Salt Lake City, Utah. Though he soon passed, Wayne’s close family was able to get to the hospital and say their goodbyes beforehand.
“Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children,” Merrill said in a statement (via The Washington Post). “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.”
Wayne got his start performing alongside Merrill as well as their siblings Alan and Jay as The Osmond Brothers. The band first started performing at LDS churches around Salt Lake City before morphing into a barbershop quartet and seguing into more secular venues. When brother Donny Osmond joined the group in 1970, the name was changed to The Osmonds. Their sister, Marie Osmond, and youngest brother Jimmy later joined before Donny and Marie eventually left to form their own act. Wayne remained a member of The Osmonds until 2007.
Wayne suffered a prolonged battle with cancer throughout his life, developing a brain tumor at the age of 10. He was eventually diagnosed with ependymoma, a cancer which is especially fatal for children. He was declared cancer free in 1994, but not before losing most of his hearing as a result of treatment.
“A true legend has left the earth,” Jay Osmond wrote in his own statement. “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. 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 … What gives me joy is to know that my brother has earned his wings and I can only imagine the heights he is soaring right now.”
