Wayne Osmond, one of the original members of The Osmonds, has died at the age of 73.
Family members said in posts on social media that the singer, who rose to fame alongside his siblings, including Donny, Jimmy and Marie Osmond, died on New Year’s Day with his wife and five children at his side after suffering a stroke.
“His legacy of faith, music, love and laughter touched the lives of so many people around the world,” a family statement said.
“He wants everyone to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, that families are forever, and that banana splits are the best candy. We love him and will miss him so much.”
Donny Osmond, 67, paid tribute to his “dear brother” and said he was grateful to see him in the hospital before his death.
“Wayne brought so much light, laughter and love to everyone who knew him, especially me,” he said. “He was very optimistic and loved by everyone.”
Wayne Osmond was born in Ogden, Utah, the fourth of nine siblings. The older Osmond brothers, Verl and Tom, were born with hearing problems.
The family were members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Wayne’s music career began when he was just a boy, when he formed a barbershop quartet with three of his brothers, Alan, Merrill, and Jay. They were later joined by younger siblings Donnie and Jimmy and became household names in the 1970s, with hits including One Bad Apple, Crazy Horses and Love Me For A Reason.
Sister Mary was also famous as a singer.
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Merrill and Jay Osmond were among the family members who participated in the tribute, with Merrill, 71, also saying he visited Wayne before his death.
“I’ve never known a man with more humility,” Merrill said. “A man who had absolutely no guile. An individual who was quick to forgive and had the ability to show unconditional love to everyone he met…
“My brother Wayne endured a lot. He gave it his all. His legacy will live on as someone who was not only a genius in his ability to write music, but was able to capture the hearts of millions of people and bring them closer to God.”
Jay, 69, said he had always “felt the most connected to Wayne out of all my siblings” and that a “true legend” had left the world.
Wayne Osmond is survived by all of his siblings, as well as his wife Kathleen and their children.