Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward Pay Tribute to Their Beloved Friend, Ozzy Osbourne
via Carlos Cordeiro / YouTube
Black Sabbath’s Final Words
Black Sabbath shared a short but heartfelt tribute after Ozzy Osbourne’s death on Tuesday. The band posted a photo of Ozzy taken during this month’s Back to the Beginning concert. Along with it came a simple caption: “Ozzy forever.”
This was one of the first public reactions following the news of Ozzy’s passing. The image and message quickly spread across social media, showing the deep impact he had on fans and fellow musicians.
View this post on Instagram
Personal Tributes from the Original Lineup
Tony Iommi, the band’s guitarist, wrote, “I just can’t believe it! My dear dear friend Ozzy has passed away only weeks after our show at Villa Park. It’s just such heartbreaking news that I can’t really find the words, there won’t ever be another like him. Geezer, Bill and myself have lost our brother. My thoughts go out to Sharon and all the Osbourne family. Rest in peace Oz. Tony.”
Bassist Geezer Butler added his own thoughts: “Goodbye dear friend — thanks for all those years — we had some great fun. Four kids from Aston – who’d have thought, eh? So glad we got to do it one last time, back in Aston. Love you.”
Drummer Bill Ward shared, “Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls, no, you’re forever in my heart. Deepest condolences to Sharon and all family members. RIP. Sincere regrets to all the fans. Never goodbye. Thank you forever. Bill Ward.”
Back to the Beginning: One Last Performance
The original Black Sabbath lineup reunited on July 5 for the Back to the Beginning concert in their hometown of Birmingham, England. It was their first time sharing the stage since 2005. The show drew 42,000 fans to Villa Park.
Ozzy also gave a solo performance during the event. Many other well-known rock and metal bands, including Metallica, Slayer, Guns N’ Roses, and Pantera, paid their own respects by honoring the group on stage.
Family Statement and Reactions from Peers
Ozzy’s family released a statement confirming his passing: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time. Sharon, Jack, Kelly, Aimee and Louis.”
Elton John also remembered Ozzy on Instagram. “He was a dear friend and a huge trailblazer who secured his place in the pantheon of rock gods — a true legend. He was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. I will miss him dearly. To Sharon and the family, I send my condolences and love.”
See the tributes below:
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Where will I find you now? In the memories, our unspoken embraces, our missed phone calls, no, you’re forever in my heart. Deepest condolences to Sharon and all family members. RIP Sincere regrets to all the fans. Never goodbye. Thank you forever. Bill Ward pic.twitter.com/2HSaIZfkX2
— Bill Ward (@billwarddrums) July 22, 2025
