Dio died Sunday of stomach cancer at the age of 67. He had replaced Osbourne in Black Sabbath in 1980.
On Monday, Osbourne paid respects to the man who would reshape the legendary heavy metal band.
Said Osbourne in a statement: "I was very saddened to hear of the passing of Ronnie James Dio. Metal has truly lost one of its greatest voices. My heart goes out to his family and to his many fans."
He added: "Love and respect."
