In the days following the heartbreaking news of the death of a heavy metal icon at the age of 76, fans and friends have been reflecting on the man behind the music, his final wishes, and the touching preparations made for his farewell. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2019, the legendary rock star faced a challenging battle with this progressive neurological condition, yet remained resolute in his spirit and musical legacy until the very end.
Before his passing, the artist had shared with the public some candid and surprisingly lighthearted thoughts about his own funeral. In a 2011 column for The Times, when a fan asked about planning their own funeral, he expressed a desire for his to be a celebration rather than a somber occasion. “There’ll be no harping on the bad times,” he wrote. He reminded readers that many people live their lives engulfed in misery, so by comparison, those like himself, especially rock stars, are fortunate. “That’s why I don’t want my funeral to be sad, I want it to be a time to say ‘Thanks.’”
When asked about the music he wanted played, he offered a down-to-earth, humorous response: “I honestly don’t care what they play at my funeral; they can put on a medley of Justin Bieber, Susan Boyle, and We Are the Diddymen if it makes ’em happy.” However, in a later interview with NME, he revealed a more personal preference: The Beatles’ “A Day In The Life,” expressing an affinity for songs from albums like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band or Revolver. Notably, he did not want any of his own greatest hits played, saying, “I never ever play that thing, I’m f***ing embarrassed about it.” He also insisted he didn’t want a happy song—after all, he would be “dead.”
Despite the challenges of his illness, the rocker’s voice remained powerful, much to the amazement of fans and loved ones. His wife, a steadfast partner throughout his life, revealed that his voice was “as good as it’s ever been,” even as Parkinson’s disease affected his mobility and physical strength.
In the last months of his life, a final wish was granted by his wife and manager, who orchestrated a heartfelt homecoming for him. Returning to his roots in the UK, the rock star performed alongside his band in a benefit concert titled Back to the Beginning held at Villa Park in Birmingham, near his childhood neighborhood of Aston. This event, a celebration of his career and influence, raised an impressive $189 million for charity and featured performances by other rock legends such as Metallica, Guns N’ Roses, Slayer, and Anthrax.
The choice of venue was deeply symbolic. “The only place that we could do it would have been Aston, because that’s where he was born and grew up, which is right where the Villa ground is,” his wife explained. The concert was envisioned as a multigenerational tribute, with bands and musicians he had influenced and worked with over the years coming together to honor his legacy. It was not just a concert, but a joyous celebration of the music and the mark he left on the industry.
The rocker himself expressed profound gratitude after the performance, telling fans, “You’ve no idea how I feel—thank you from the bottom of my heart.” His emotional return to the stage was a powerful reminder of the indelible connection he maintained with his audience, even as his health declined.
Following his death, his family released a statement that reflected the love and privacy they wished to uphold during this difficult time: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved [the rock star] has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”
He leaves behind a loving family including his wife, their children, and children from a previous marriage, as well as grandchildren. His life and legacy continue to be celebrated by friends, family, fans, and even his boyhood football club, which shared a heartfelt tribute highlighting his enduring connection to his hometown and community.
The artist’s story is one of resilience, passion, and an unyielding love for music. Despite his battles with illness, he remained true to himself and his fans until the very end. His funeral plans, marked by humor, gratitude, and music, reveal a man who embraced life fully and wished to be remembered with joy rather than sorrow.
This farewell, planned with care and love, reflects a life lived on his own terms—a true rock legend whose influence will resonate for generations to come.
