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Introduction
The legendary singer Wayne Osmond passed away on January 1, 2025, at the age of 73, following a stroke. He died peacefully in a Salt Lake City, Utah, hospital, surrounded by his devoted wife and five children. His death marked the end of an era for fans of The Osmonds, who cherished his contributions to hits like “One Bad Apple” and “Down by the Lazy River.”
In the wake of his passing, many have shown great interest in learning more about Kathleen White Osmond, the woman who was by his side for over five decades.
Wayne and Kathleen’s journey together began in January 1974 at a church event. Kathleen, then a 21-year-old beauty queen who had been crowned Miss Davis County Fair and later Miss Utah 1974, captivated Wayne. Their first date in February saw Wayne treating her to lunch and a picturesque plane ride over the valley. By November of that same year, they were engaged, and they exchanged vows on December 13, 1974.
While studying education at Brigham Young University, Kathleen relinquished her Miss Utah title to dedicate herself to her new life with Wayne. Throughout their more than 50-year marriage, she was an unwavering source of love, resilience, and encouragement, especially as Wayne pursued his musical career.
Together, they built a family, raising five children: Amy (born 1976), Steven (1978), Gregory (1980), Sarah (1982), and Michelle (1986). Their eldest daughter, Amy Osmond, notably won America’s Junior Miss in 1994. Now married to Jeff Cook and a mother of five, Amy shared a heartfelt tribute to her father on Instagram after his death. She posted a September video of Wayne, writing, “This is the most special video that was taken in September that I never posted… now I know why. Thank you to all of his beautiful friends who have supported him, Mom, and our whole family throughout the years.”
Wayne Osmond’s departure leaves a profound emptiness not only in the music world but also in the hearts of those who knew him as a dedicated husband, father, and man of faith. His life exemplified love, family, and the quiet strength of a partner who supported him every step of the way.