Ozzy Osbourne pays tribute to ‘gentle soul with a heart of gold’ Bernie Torme

Ozzy Osbourne’s former guitarist Bernie Torme has died at the age of 66.

The Irish musician died on March 17, after suffering “post-flu complications”.

A statement from his family said: “Bernie Torme passed away peacefully on the 17th March 2019, one day short of his 67th birthday, surrounded by his family.

“He had been on life support for the past four weeks at a London hospital following post-flu complications.

“Bernie will be remembered for dedicating his life to his music for five decades. He will be sorely missed.”

Torme was known for his work with rock group Gillan, and played with Osbourne’s band following the death of his guitarist Randy Rhoads in 1982.

Osbourne was among those to pay tribute.

“What a sad day,” he wrote on Twitter. “We’ve lost another great musician. Bernie was a gentle soul with a heart of gold.

“He will be dearly missed. I send my sincere condolences to his family, friends and fans. Rest in Peace Bernie.”

His wife Sharon said: “I cannot believe that Bernie Torme has passed.

“Bernie helped out Ozzy and I at a time of great need and we will never ever forget that. Love and condolences to his family.”

Torme’s representative, drummer Mik Gaffney, said: “I can only say how much I will miss him.

“I’ve known him since the late 80s. “It’s been a privilege to be his drummer for the past couple of years and his friend for much longer.”

Getty. Ozzy Osbourne and Bernie Torme performing in 1982.