Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com | Inset: Public Domain

Marie Osmond is opening up about the loss of her brother, Alan Osmond, sharing a heartfelt tribute that reflects both deep grief and enduring faith.

Alan, a founding member of the Osmond family’s musical legacy, died April 20th at his home in Orem, Utah. He was 76. According to reports, he was surrounded by his wife and all eight of their sons at the time of his passing. No official cause of death has been released, though he had lived with multiple sclerosis since 1987.

In a social media post, Marie acknowledged the difficulty of putting such a profound loss into words.

“Writing about your sibling’s passing is not something easily done,” she wrote. “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.”

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Marie Osmond (@marieosmond)

As the only sister in the family, Marie reflected on their unique bond, describing Alan as both protective and dependable.

“He was always very protective of me… but he was always there if I needed him!” she shared.

Beyond his role as a brother, Marie highlighted Alan’s impact on the Osmond family’s success. He was a talented performer, musician, and producer who helped shape their career.

“Alan had so many incredible talents, from singing to performing to playing multiple instruments,” she wrote, noting his work on hit records and projects like the album The Plan.

One of her most meaningful memories came during a final reunion performance she helped organize for the original Osmond Brothers.

“When I decided to honor the original four Osmond Brothers… Alan tearfully said, ‘So you’re producing me now,’” she recalled. “He hugged me and said, ‘Thank you, I get to be on stage one last time with my brothers’.”

Despite his health challenges, Alan’s determination stood out.

“The determination he manifested to stand up out of his wheelchair and be next to his brothers was simply unbelievable!!!” Marie wrote.

She also described him as a natural leader, noting he took on that role at just 12 years old.

“He told me many times, ‘It felt like a mission… a long one, but I loved doing it,’” she shared. “What I admired the most about my brother is his devotion and love for God and family! Those were his priorities… Always!”

Marie said she also experienced a moment of spiritual comfort after his passing.

“I felt my Mom… like she said to my heart, ‘Honey… that’s how excited I am for the rebirth of my child here.’ What a joyous reunion… I know he’s happy.”

She concluded her tribute by sharing the final words Alan spoke to her—words rooted in his faith.

“The last thing he said to me was, ‘I can’t wait to see brother Wayne… 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.’”

Other family members also shared tributes. Donny Osmond remembered Alan as “my protector… my guide,” while Merrill Osmond recalled a recent visit.

“He was struggling, but… he found the strength to chuckle… and then he smiled,” Merrill wrote.

Alan Osmond is survived by his wife, Suzanne, eight sons, 30 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and his siblings. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Wayne.

For Marie, the loss is personal—but so is the hope she holds onto.

More from Beliefnet and our partners