UPDATE: Abraham Quintanilla, the father of legendary Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla, has died at the age of 86, as confirmed by his family on Instagram earlier today. The news comes from his son, A.B. Quintanilla, who shared the heartbreaking announcement, stating, “It’s with a heavy heart to let you guys know that my Dad passed away today…”
The Quintanilla family has been a cornerstone of Selena’s legacy, with Abraham playing a pivotal role as her manager and guiding her to stardom. He married Selena’s mother, Marcella Quintanilla, in June 1963, and together they raised two daughters, Selena and Suzette Quintanilla, who contributed to the band alongside A.B. as they launched Selena’s music career.
Abraham was not just a father; he was a driving force behind Selena’s success, transforming their family’s passion for music into a flourishing business. In a previous interview, he shared insights from his memoir, A Father’s Dream: My Family’s Journey in Music, revealing the complexities of managing a music career: “You have to understand that people have sometimes the wrong image of musicians… but being involved in music is also a business.”
Selena’s tragic death at just 23 years old in 1995 still resonates deeply with fans worldwide. She was shot by her former friend and business associate Yolanda Saldívar, who was convicted of first-degree murder. The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles recently confirmed Saldívar’s parole request was denied, reinforcing the ongoing impact of Selena’s loss on her family and fans. The Quintanilla family expressed their sentiment in the past, stating, “While nothing can bring Selena back, this decision reaffirms that justice continues to stand for the beautiful life that was taken from us.”
The news of Abraham’s passing has left many in mourning, as he was not only a father but a beloved figure in the music community. His commitment to preserving Selena’s legacy through the Selena Museum and various tributes serves as a testament to his dedication.
As the world reflects on the legacy of both Selena and her father, fans, friends, and family are sharing their condolences and memories on social media, creating a wave of tributes honoring their contributions to music and culture.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as fans and the music community come together to celebrate the life and legacy of Abraham Quintanilla.
