Selena Quintanilla’s father Abraham Quintanilla Jr. dies at age 86

Selena Quintanilla’s family is saying goodbye to their beloved matriarch.

Abraham Quintanilla Jr., father of the late Tejano music icon and instrumental in founding his children’s band Selena y Los Dinos, passed away on December 13th. He passed away at the age of 86.

Abraham’s son, Abraham “AB” Quintanilla III, confirmed the news on Instagram, writing alongside a photo of his father, “Today I am so sad to share with you all that my father passed away.”

Further details about his death, including the cause of death, were not shared.

Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, Abraham pursued a musical career with the singing group Los Dinos, but left the band in the late 1960s to raise a family with his wife, Marcela Quintanilla. After noticing her daughter’s singing ability, she encouraged her children to play music together, with AB on bass, Selena on vocals, and Suzette Quintanilla on drums, despite initial resistance.

As Selena y Los Dinos’ popularity grew in the Latin music world, Abraham continued to serve as the band’s manager, playing a key role in the band’s decision-making and creative direction until Selena was shot and killed in 1995, at which point the group disbanded.