Wayne Osmond dies at 73 as family pays tribute to singer’s legacy of ‘faith, music, love, and laughter’

Wayne Osmond dies at 73 as family pays tribute to singer’s legacy of ‘faith, music, love, and laughter’
Wayne Osmond rose to fame in the 1960s alongside his siblings (Getty Images)

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH: Wayne Osmond, a cornerstone of the iconic Osmond family, died on New Year’s Day, January 1 at age 73.

The Utah native was surrounded by his wife, Kathlyn Louise White, and their five children at the time of his death.

How did Wayne Osmond die?

Wayne Osmond died following a stroke. The family released a heartfelt statement to KTVX that read, "Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully."


UNITED KINGDOM - MAY 30: WEMBLEY ARENA Photo of OSMONDS and Wayne OSMOND, Wayne Osmond performing on stage (Photo by C Brandon/Redferns)
Wayne Osmond died on January 1, 2025, following a stroke (C Brandon/Redferns/Getty Images)

"His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter has influenced the lives of many people around the world. We love him and will miss him dearly," they added.

Wayne Osmond's life in the spotlight

Wayne Osmond, the second-oldest of the original Osmond Brothers singers, rose to fame in the 1960s alongside his siblings after performing at Disneyland and appearing on 'The Andy Williams Show'.

Known for their close-knit family dynamic and wholesome image, the Osmonds became global sensations.

Wayne’s career included hit songs, a teen idol phase, and a Las Vegas residency with his siblings.

The family’s legacy extended through generations, with Wayne’s younger siblings Donny and Marie Osmond dominating 1970s television and music charts.


LAS VEGAS - AUGUST 14: Entertainer Wayne Osmond performs at the Orleans Hotel & Casino August 14, 2007 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The members of the Osmond family have reunited to film a television special for PBS called,
Wayne Osmond performs at the Orleans Hotel & Casino on August 14, 2007, in Las Vegas, Nevada (Getty Images)

Wayne Osmond's health challenges and resilience

Throughout his life, Wayne Osmond faced significant health challenges.

Diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1997, he overcame treatment despite losing his hearing.

A stroke in 2012 left him unable to play guitar, according to Daily Mail.

Despite these setbacks, he continued to inspire with his resilience and faith. Wayne’s death marked the first loss among the nine Osmond siblings.

His siblings paid moving tributes. Jay Osmond shared, "My heart is deeply saddened... Wayne has earned his wings, and I can only imagine the heights he is soaring right now."


LONDON - MAY 29: The Osmonds (L-R back row) Jimmy,Marie, Donny, (L-R front row) Alan, Wayne, Merril and Jay pose for a photograph at a photocall promoting their number one DVD and 50th Anniversary Concert in Las Vegas, at the Millenium Hotel on May 29, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
The Osmonds (L-R back row) Jimmy, Marie, Donny, (L-R front row) Alan, Wayne, Merril and Jay pose at a photocall promoting their number one DVD and 50th Anniversary Concert in Las Vegas in 2008 (Getty Images)

Merrill Osmond called his brother a saint, adding, "His departure will be sad for some, but for those waiting on the other side, there will be a massive celebration."

Known for his humor, he believed that "banana splits are the best dessert" and cherished the eternal nature of family.

Wayne’s family will celebrate his life and legacy in a private memorial.

Internet pays tribute to Wayne Osmond

After Wayne Osmond's family announced his death, fans of the singer paid tribute to him.

One fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter), "Very sad to hear of the passing of Wayne Osmond. They were some of my first musical heroes, that family. Sending all positive and healing energies to @donnyosmond, his family and friends, all of Wayne's family and friends, and Osmond fans around the world."



 

"Oh that’s sad, and he was only in his early 70’s," a fan remarked, and another commented, "So sorry to hear of the sad passing of Wayne Osmond. The Osmond family has been part of my life since I was 12 and have inspired me to be the best person I can be. Condolences to all his family, friends and my fellow Osmond fans."



 



 

"Rest In Peace Wayne Osmond. Thank you for the music and fun. Condolences to the Osmond Family," penned someone else.



 

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.

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