Fans of Ozzy Osbourne are petitioning for a state funeral and a national day of mourning for the late rock legend, who died on Tuesday aged 76 after a battle with Parkinson's disease. Campaigners argue that the 'Prince of Darkness' deserves an official farewell in recognition of his immense impact on music and culture.
Petitions also propose renaming Birmingham Airport to Ozzy Osbourne International and erecting a statue near Birmingham Children's Hospital to honour his philanthropic work. In his final performance less than three weeks ago, Osbourne raised £140 million for Cure Parkinson's, Birmingham Children's Hospital, and Acorns Children's Hospice.
A petition on Change.org states: 'Ozzy Osbourne, the founder and pioneer of metal music, has touched the hearts of many. Granting a state funeral and a national day of mourning would acknowledge his role in shaping the music industry and fostering community among fans.'
Dave Allen-Cooper, frontman of Black Sabbath tribute act Darkmoor, paid tribute: 'He is a rock legend – easily up there with the likes of Freddie Mercury. He's probably in heaven now having a drink and cigarette with Lemmy of Motörhead.'
Lord Mayor of Birmingham Zafar Iqbal said Osbourne 'put Birmingham, and especially Aston, on the world map' and 'never forgot his roots.' An exhibition at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, titled 'Ozzy Osbourne: Working Class Hero,' has set up a book of condolence.
