It was time to say goodbye to the Prince of Darkness. On Wednesday, Ozzy Osbourne, one of the founders of the pioneering heavy metal band Black Sabbath, received just such a tribute in Birmingham, England — his hometown — ahead of a private family funeral.

Thousands gathered in the streets of Ozzy Osbourne’s native Birmingham, England, early Wednesday ahead of his funeral procession led by an emotional Sharon Osbourne and their two kids, Jack and Kelly.

Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne ‘s funeral is taking place July 30, one week after the rock legend passed away at the age of 76 from unknown causes. His death came shortly after he performed his final show with the legendary rock band on July 5. Osbourne said over a decade ago that he wanted his funeral to be a day of celebration.