Wayne OsmondKnown for his role in the legendary Osmond family, has died aged 73.

The Osmonds’ rise to fame began when they were discovered at a gig by Andy Williams’ father Disneyland. In the 1960s they appeared regularly on The Andy Williams Show and later toured extensively throughout Europe. Over time, the group eventually split up and pursued a solo career.

Wayne Osmond, best known as the brother of Marie and Donny Osmond, stars of the 1970s variety show Donny & Marie, was acknowledged by his family in an emotional statement on New Year’s Day.

Wayne Osmond has died, according to his family

The Osmonds started out as a barbershop quartet before finding fame as “teen music idols.” They later produced the popular television series “The Osmond Family Show,” which was filmed in Orem.

“Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children,” said the family’s statement, obtained by local ABC affiliate KTVX.

“His legacy of faith, music, love and laughter has influenced the lives of many people around the world. He wants everyone to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, that families last forever, and that banana splits are the best dessert. We love him and will miss him very much,” the family added.

The Osmond family extends their warmest tributes

Several of Wayne’s siblings shared heartfelt tributes on social media in honor of their brother. Jay Osmond expressed that throughout his life he has “always felt the most connected to Wayne of all my siblings.”

“I am deeply saddened by the loss of my brother Wayne. It is said that where there is great love, there is also great sorrow when we part on our earthly journey,” Jay said. “What brings me joy is knowing that my brother ‘Wings’ has earned his wings and I can only imagine the heights he is currently climbing.”

Merrill Osmond speaks out

Merrill Osmond shared more details, revealing that his brother suffered a “severe stroke.” He told how he rushed to the hospital when he heard the news and expressed his gratitude that he could be there to say his final goodbye.

“My brother was a saint before he came into this world, and he will leave an even greater saint than when he came in,” Merrill said in his post. “His departure from this earth will be a sad moment for some, but for those who wait for him on the other side, there will be a tremendous celebration beyond anything we can imagine.”

In 1997, Wayne was diagnosed with a brain tumor, which was successfully treated. However, he eventually gave up his music career due to a hearing impairment.

Wayne Osmond started at a young age

Wayne began performing at a young age in a barbershop quartet alongside his brothers Alan, Merrill and Jay. Her big break came when Andy Williams’ father discovered her performing at Disneyland, which led to frequent appearances on The Andy Williams Show in the 1960s. Known for his talent as a singer, guitarist and songwriter, Wayne played a key role in shaping the group’s sound.

As part of the Osmonds, Wayne contributed to hits such as “One Bad Apple,” “Crazy Horses,” and “Love Me for a Reason.” The group evolved from barbershop harmony to pop-rock sensations and even ventured into television with shows like “The Donny & Marie Show” and “The Osmond Family Show,” filmed in Orem, Utah.

More about Wayne Osmond’s legacy

Wayne performed alongside his brothers Alan, Merrill, Jay, Donny and Jimmy as part of the renowned barbershop group The Osmonds. According to IMDb, Wayne was born in Ogden, Utah in 1951 and had five children with his wife Kathlyn Louise White.

A native of Utah, Wayne was the second oldest member of the original Osmond Brothers singing group and the fourth of the nine Osmond children.

Wayne Osmond is the first of the Osmond siblings to die. In 1974, Wayne married Kathlyn White, a former Miss Utah, and together they raised five children.