Northborough – Marshall Wayne “Ozzie” Osborne, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2024, in Worcester, MA, at the age of 93.
Born in Brockton, MA, on June 25, 1930, Ozzie was a man of steadfast character and unwavering kindness to all. Ozzie grew up in Brockton, where he attended the local public schools and graduated from Brockton Vocational High School, specializing in mechanics. His skills and interests led him to a life that was both practical and service-oriented. At the age of 20, Ozzie enlisted in the U.S. Army and served honorably during the Korean War, an experience that would forever instill in him a profound sense of patriotism and duty.
After returning from his military service, Ozzie embarked on a long and successful career as a truck driver. For 50 years, he navigated the highways, driving 18-wheelers for numerous trucking companies. His love for the open road was matched only by his ability to fix anything that came his way.
Ozzie was the quintessential handyman, always ready to repair or maintain his family’s power equipment or to lend a helping hand to those in need. His quiet demeanor and slow-to-anger temperament were his hallmarks, earning him the affection and respect of all who knew him. Ozzie’s life was a testament to the value of hard work, dedication, and the joy of simple pleasures. He was a talented and detail-oriented individual, known for his accommodating nature and gentle spirit. His interests were as practical as they were heartfelt; he found joy in the everyday tasks and took pride in his ability to solve problems and provide for his family.
Together with Rita, the couple resided in various Massachusetts towns, including Quincy, Boston, and Needham, before settling in Northborough in 1984. He was a devoted member of St. Bernadette Parish, where he served as an usher.
Ozzie’s love extended beyond his immediate family to include the family of his beloved wife, Rita A. (McTomney) Osborne. Together, they were looking forward to celebrating their 61st wedding anniversary on March 3rd. Ozzie’s loving family includes his wife, Rita; his children, Cathy Osborne and Michael Osborne; his grandchildren, Frederick “Eric” Langone, III and his wife Yulanda, Heather (Langone) Willis, and Tristan Maus; and his great-grandchildren, TJ Willis, Courtney Willis, and Gisella Langone. He also leaves behind Rita’s siblings and extended family members, whom he considered his own: William McTomney (the late Mary), the late Peter McTomney (Irene), John McTomney (Geraldine), Elizabeth McTomney (John Cahill), the late Patrick McTomney, Margaret Laughlin (Patrick), Theresa Stevens (Fred), and Michael McTomney (Deborah), as well as many nieces and nephews.
In every aspect of his life, Ozzie embodied the qualities of being handy, gentle, and kind. His legacy is one of love, service, and the quiet strength that comes from a life well-lived. As Helen Keller once said, “What we have once enjoyed we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” Ozzie’s spirit and the memories he created will forever be a part of the lives he touched. Ozzie’s life was a journey of love, commitment, and humble service. His presence will be deeply missed, but his influence will continue to guide and inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him.
A calling hour will be held between 9 – 10:30am on Friday, February 23rd, at Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main Street, Northborough. A funeral Mass will follow at 11 am at St. Bernadette Parish, 266 Main Street, Northborough. Ozzie will be interred in the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Winchendon at a later date.
To leave condolence for his family, please visit www.HaysFuneralHome.com.
