Abraham Quintanilla, the patriarch behind Tejano icon Selena, died Saturday at 86, a loss felt across Texas and beyond.
Announcement and Age
Quintanilla’s son posted a heartfelt message on social media, saying, “It’s with a heavy heart to let you guys know that my dad passed away today.” The announcement came the same day, marking the end of an era for the family.
Family Background and Legacy
The Quintanilla family hails from Corpus Christi, Texas. Abraham was the original singer of Los Dinos, teaching his children Suzette, AB, and Selena to perform. The band gained global recognition as Selena rose to prominence in the Tejano music scene.
Museum and Tribute
In 1998, Abraham opened the Selena Museum at Q Productions—Selena’s former recording studio—located at 5410 Leopard Street, Corpus Christi. The museum displays her awards, costumes—including the purple jumpsuit worn at the 1995 Rodeo Houston Performance—and childhood possessions, fan art, and a recreation of her studio.
Context of Documentary
Quintanilla’s passing follows the release of the Netflix documentary “Selena y Los Dinos: A Family’s Legacy,” which premiered on Nov. 17, offering a fresh look at the family’s story.
Key Takeaways
- Abraham Quintanilla died at 86 on Saturday.
- His death comes shortly after the Netflix documentary about Selena and his family.
- The family’s legacy continues through the Selena Museum in Corpus Christi.
The news of Abraham Quintanilla’s death reminds fans of the enduring influence of Selena’s music and the family that helped shape her career.
Morgan J. Carter is a Texas-based journalist covering breaking news, local government, public safety, and community developments across Austin. With more than six years of reporting experience, Morgan focuses on delivering accurate, clear, and timely stories that reflect the fast-moving pulse of the city.
At newsofaustin.com, Morgan reports on everything from severe weather alerts and traffic updates to city council decisions, crime reports, and the issues shaping daily life in Austin. Known for reliable fact-checking and a strong commitment to public-interest journalism, Morgan brings readers the information they need to stay informed and engaged.
When not tracking a developing story, Morgan enjoys exploring Austin’s neighborhoods, attending local events, and connecting with residents to share the voices and experiences that define the community.
