Wayne Osmond, renowned singer and guitarist, passed away at the age of 73. A founding member of the popular family band The Osmonds, he was known for hits like “One Bad Apple” and “Down By the Lazy River.” His brother, Merrill Osmond, shared the news of his death on Facebook, revealing that Wayne had suffered a massive stroke and died in a Salt Lake City hospital.
Merrill described Wayne as a man of great humility, quick to forgive, and always willing to show love to everyone he encountered. Growing up in Ogden, Utah, in a Mormon family with eight siblings, Wayne was part of the musical Osmond legacy. The brothers began their journey as a barbershop quartet in the 1950s and gained wider recognition in the 1960s, thanks in part to support from singer Andy Williams.
During their peak in the early 1970s, The Osmonds competed with other iconic groups of the era, such as the Jackson 5. Donny Osmond, the younger brother, became the standout star among them. While their fame dwindled by the mid-1970s, Donny and Marie Osmond continued to shine in their solo careers.
In the 1980s, Wayne rejoined Alan, Merrill, and Jay to explore country music, achieving several hits, including “I Think About Your Lovin’.” Unfortunately, Wayne’s health took a turn when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor in the mid-1990s, leading to significant hearing loss due to treatment. A stroke in 2012 further took away his ability to play guitar.
Despite these challenges, Wayne maintained a positive outlook on life. In a 2018 interview, he reflected on his journey, expressing contentment with his life and a newfound joy in caring for his yard, cherishing the peace that came with it.
Wayne Osmond married Kathlyn White in 1974, and together they raised five children, leaving behind a legacy of music and love that will always be remembered.
