The family of late singer Selena Quintanilla held a private celebration of life service in Corpus Christi, Texas, over the weekend to honor her father, Abraham Quintanilla Jr., who passed away last month. The intimate gathering brought together close family and friends to remember his legacy.
On a recent weekend in Corpus Christi, Texas, the Quintanilla family convened for a private service dedicated to Abraham Quintanilla Jr., the patriarch and father of the iconic Tejano singer Selena. The event, which was invitation-only and kept deliberately low-key, reflected the family’s desire for a personal tribute away from public scrutiny. Corpus Christi holds deep significance for the family, serving as their longtime home and the community where Selena’s memory is deeply cherished.
Approximately 400 guests, comprising close relatives and friends, attended the celebration of life. In a move to maintain privacy, no phones were permitted at the service, and Abraham’s casket was not present, emphasizing a focus on his spirit rather than his physical remains. The ceremony featured performances by Spanish-language singers, a heartfelt video tribute highlighting key moments from Abraham’s life, and prayers led by a preacher, creating a reverent and musical atmosphere.
Abraham Quintanilla Jr. died on December 13 at the age of 86 in his hometown of Corpus Christi. His son, A.B. Quintanilla III, announced the passing on Instagram, expressing the family’s grief and acknowledging Abraham’s role as a devoted husband and father. In a subsequent statement, the family described him as a guiding presence who lived with faith, discipline, and unwavering love, underscoring his impact on their lives and the broader community.
The cause of Abraham’s death has not been publicly disclosed. Medical examiners did not accept jurisdiction for an investigation, indicating no signs of trauma or foul play, which aligns with the family’s preference for privacy. This decision allowed the family to proceed with memorial arrangements without external scrutiny, focusing instead on celebrating his life and contributions.
The service was followed by a dinner where guests continued to share memories and honor Abraham’s legacy. By choosing Corpus Christi for the event, the family reinforced their ties to the area, which has been central to their history and Selena’s enduring fame. This location choice also paid homage to the community that has supported them through triumphs and tragedies over the decades.
Abraham’s death comes nearly three decades after the tragic murder of his daughter Selena in 1995, a loss that profoundly affected the family and fans worldwide. The family has consistently worked to preserve Selena’s memory positively, advocating for celebrations of her life rather than the tragedy. In recent years, they have been involved in efforts to deny parole for Yolanda Saldívar, Selena’s convicted killer, emphasizing justice and remembrance.
Looking ahead, the Quintanilla family is likely to continue honoring both Abraham and Selena through private reflections and public engagements. The private service for Abraham serves as a poignant reminder of the family’s resilience and their commitment to keeping cherished memories alive. As fans and the media respect their privacy, the event underscores the enduring legacy of a family that has shaped music and culture.
