Thelma Riley – The Quiet Life of Ozzy Osbourne’s First Wife
When people think of Ozzy Osbourne’s wife, Sharon Osbourne immediately springs to mind — a celebrity and media personality in her own right. However, before Sharon, there was Thelma Riley, Ozzy’s first wife and the mother of two of his children. Despite living largely out of the spotlight, Thelma’s life story remains a point of curiosity for many fans.
Let’s explore everything we know about Thelma Riley — from her early life and marriage to her current lifestyle.
Who Is Thelma Riley?
Birthday and Personal Details
- Date of Birth: 17 May 1954
- Age: 69 (as of 2024)
- Zodiac Sign: Taurus
- Height: Approximately 5 ft 6 in
- Weight: Roughly 62 kg
- Ethnicity: White British
- Nationality: British
- Religion: Christian
- Marital Status: Divorced
- Estimated Net Worth: Around $1 million
Thelma Riley’s Early Life
Very little is publicly known about Thelma’s early life. Born and raised in Hertfordshire, England, she grew up in a Christian household with both British parents. Specific details about her education and upbringing remain private, but it is known that she was working at a nightclub when she met her future husband, Ozzy Osbourne.
Meeting and Marrying Ozzy Osbourne
Ozzy’s Background
Ozzy Osbourne, born John Michael Osbourne in 1948 in Warwickshire, England, rose from a working-class background to become a global rock icon. Known as the “Prince of Darkness,” he is best recognised as the lead vocalist of the legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath.
Ozzy had a turbulent youth marked by abuse and mental health struggles, which later influenced his music. He began his musical journey in the late 1960s and found fame quickly with Black Sabbath, eventually becoming one of the best-selling music artists of all time.
Thelma and Ozzy’s Relationship
In 1971, while Ozzy was performing at the Rum Runner nightclub in Birmingham, he met Thelma Riley, who was working there at the time. The two hit it off quickly and married soon after. Their marriage lasted for approximately 11 years, ending in divorce in 1982.
Thelma’s life with Ozzy was far from easy. She endured the hardships of his intense alcohol and drug use, as well as the strain of his prolonged absences due to touring. These pressures eventually led to the breakdown of their marriage.
Children and Family Life
Thelma and Ozzy had two children together:
- Jessica Starshine Osbourne, born in 1972
- Louis John Osbourne, born in 1975
Jessica has pursued a career in acting, while Louis followed his father’s footsteps into music. However, neither of them has reached the fame or visibility Ozzy enjoys.
Thelma is also a grandmother of five. Louis has two children, Maia and Elijah, and Jessica has three — Kitty, Harry, and Isabelle. Despite Ozzy’s minimal involvement during their upbringing, Thelma played a steady and present role in their lives.
Thelma Riley’s Life Today
Today, Thelma Riley lives a much more grounded life in Leicestershire, England. She works as a schoolteacher, often accompanying pupils on educational trips and engaging in typical classroom responsibilities.
Outside of her profession, Thelma enjoys a peaceful, private life. She spends time with her grandchildren, socialises with friends, shops, hosts and attends parties, and generally avoids the media spotlight. Her current lifestyle reflects a stark contrast to the chaos and fame she once experienced during her marriage to Ozzy Osbourne.
Final Thoughts
Thelma Riley may not be a household name like Sharon Osbourne, but she played an important role in Ozzy Osbourne’s early life and is the mother to two of his children. After their difficult marriage, she carved out a quiet, fulfilling life away from the glare of fame. Now a dedicated educator and proud grandmother, Thelma seems content with a life of simplicity and peace.
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