Beloved '70s star Alan Osmond passed away on Monday, April 20, after a decades-long battle with Multiple Sclerosis. He was the oldest member of the musical group The Osmonds, who shot to fame in the '70s with hits like "One Bad Apple" and "Down by the Lazy River".
Alan's sister, Marie Osmond, shared a touching tribute to the 76-year-old on social media, revealing that his last words to her were about their late brother, Wayne Osmond, who died in January 2025.
"Writing about your sibling's passing is not something easily done. The years and years of memories I have of my big brother Alan could never be written in a few words – it would take volumes – but I shall try," she began in the caption.
© Instagram"As his only sister, I know I had a different relationship with him than he had with his brothers, and I must say I loved that! He was always very protective of me (not so sure I love that one), but he was always there if I needed him!"
She continued: "Alan became our leader at age 12. How daunting that must have felt to have that immense responsibility, to lead at such a young age. But he never complained. He told me many times, 'It felt like a mission…a long one, but I loved doing it.'"
Marie went on to detail Alan's many talents, including his ability to play multiple instruments, his skill with songwriting, his stage presence, and his production prowess. She then recounted The Osmonds' reunion in Hawai'i, where Alan was able to stand up out of his wheelchair to perform with his brothers.
© Getty Images"What a joyous reunion and rebirth that took place on the other side," she added. "I know he's happy. The last thing he said to me was, 'I can't wait to see brother Wayne, so we can be missionary companions together and start preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to those who never had the opportunity to hear his message of peace and hope in this life.' That's my brother Alan!! I love you so very much and will miss you dearly."
The Osmond family were born and raised in Utah, and Alan was a devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints throughout his life. His brother, Wayne, passed away in January 2025, aged 73, following a stroke.
© InstagramHe had been diagnosed with a brain tumor in 1997 and suffered a stroke in 2012 that left him unable to play the guitar. Alan, Wayne, and their brothers Merrill and Jay started the barbershop quartet in 1958.
© Disney General Entertainment ConThey were then discovered at Disneyland and went on to appear on The Lawrence Welk Show and The Andy Williams Show before Donny and Jimmy Osmond joined the group.
Alan is survived by his wife, Suzanne Pinegar Osmond, and their eight sons, including Michael, Nathan, Doug, David, Scott, Jon, Alex and Tyler, all of whom were by his side when he passed. The performer was also a proud grandfather to 30 and a proud great-grandfather to five.
