The Mexican music world is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved voices, Paquita la del Barrio, who passed away on February 17 at the age of 77. Her death leaves behind an immense artistic legacy, cherished by generations of fans.
Following the announcement, Francisco "Paquito" Torres, Paquita’s longtime manager and close friend, shared details about the funeral arrangements in an interview with Sale el Sol (Imagen Televisión).
Paquita’s passing and funeral plans
Torres expressed his sorrow over the singer’s passing, revealing that she died peacefully in her sleep at home in her native Veracruz. “She passed away in her bed, at her home, while sleeping. And well, what can I say?” he said emotionally.
Regarding funeral arrangements, he stated that the family intends to hold a private service but is considering bringing her remains to Mexico City to allow fans to pay their respects.
“I spoke with her family and suggested bringing her to Mexico,” he explained. “Their plan is to cremate her, but I proposed taking her to Casa Paquita so people can say their goodbyes in a place that meant so much to her.” Casa Paquita, the singer’s former restaurant in the Guerrero neighborhood, holds deep sentimental value.
While the venue may not reopen, Torres said discussions about the tribute are ongoing. “I’ll be heading to Veracruz soon to finalize the details with her family,” he added.
Paquita’s health before her passing
When asked about Paquita’s final moments, Torres avoided speculation but recounted what he knew.
“We got a call at around 8 a.m. saying she wasn’t waking up and looked pale. We advised them to call an ambulance, but by the time it arrived, there was nothing more to be done. It seems she had a heart attack,” he shared. Paquita had been under the care of her sister Viola and close friend Martha in recent months.
Despite health challenges, Torres emphasized that Paquita had been feeling well in the days leading up to her passing. She had been frustrated about performing while seated due to mobility issues but remained fully engaged with her career.
“Just two days ago, we were in touch. She was preparing for an event in Mexico, asking me, ‘What’s next? What’s on the agenda?’” he recalled, mentioning her excitement about an upcoming show at the Coloso de Reforma. “Yesterday, she seemed fine, ate well, and appeared okay. That’s why the news this morning was such a shock.”
Paquita and her reluctance to discuss death
Although some artists speak openly about their mortality, Torres said Paquita avoided conversations about death.
“She never liked discussing it. Some people say, ‘I feel my time is near,’ but not Paquita. Even in the dressing room, if we placed flowers, she’d say, ‘Don’t put flowers—I feel like I’m going to die,’” he revealed.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her music and legacy will live on in the hearts of fans across Mexico and beyond.