The Tejano music world is in mourning as Criselda Cantu Hernandez, the beloved wife of the iconic Little Joe of Little Joe Y La Familia, has passed away at the age of 86. The announcement, filled with sorrow, came directly from Little Joe Y La Familia, sharing their profound grief and heartbreak with fans and the music community.
“It is with our deepest sorrows and broken hearts that we share the news of La Familia’s First Lady Criselda Cantu Hernandez making her ascent into heaven on Thursday, October 10, 2024. At her time of passing, she was entirely surrounded by her family at home,” the heartfelt statement from Little Joe Y La Familia’s Facebook page conveyed.
Little Joe Y La Familia Facebook Post Announcing Criselda Cantu Hernandez's Passing
Criselda and Joe’s journey together was nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to enduring love spanning 69 years, with 62 of those spent as husband and wife. Her legacy continues through her husband Joe, their children Ivan, Christie, Ike, and Ady, her grandchildren Amber, Josh, Catalina, and Jazzmeen, step-grandchildren Jennifer, Josie, and Greg, and her brother Leonel. She was predeceased by her parents Manuel and Hermina, and sisters Estella and Angie.
Beyond her role as a loving wife and mother, Criselda Cantu Hernandez was a cornerstone of the Tejano music industry. Her business acumen was evident in her leadership as president of Leona Records and her entrepreneurial spirit as co-founder of DeLeon Publishing. Crucially, alongside Little Joe, she was instrumental in the formation of Little Joe and The Latinaires, the band that would evolve into the legendary Little Joe Y La Familia. In the nascent stages of Joe’s career, Criselda’s creative talents shone as she designed and sewed stage outfits for Joe and the band, ensuring they looked as captivating as their music sounded.
“We so deeply miss our wife, mother, grandma, sister, aunt, friend, protector, and angel. Our family thanks everyone for their prayers and respectfully ask for privacy during our time of grieving. We love you Cris,” the statement from Little Joe La Familia poignantly concluded, highlighting the deep personal loss felt by the family and the band.
Just days prior, a viral video clip captured Little Joe at the Festival Chicano in Houston, Texas, on October 4, where the 83-year-old Tejano icon hinted at the impending sad news. He shared with the audience, “I’ve been, well, just let’s say distracted. A lot of things are going on in my life that I have to confront, and I will have to make a big difficult decision not too long from now. And I try to clear my mind of it but it’s there because it’s the inevitable and it’s going to change my life. Pero con el favor de Dios and your support I’ll get over it.” This message now resonates with a deeper meaning, underscoring the personal challenges Little Joe and La Familia were facing.
Little Joe Y La Familia Facebook Post Announcing Criselda Cantu Hernandez's Passing
The team at Tejano Nation extends their deepest condolences to Little Joe Y La Familia during this difficult time. Criselda Cantu Hernandez’s legacy is one of love, unwavering support, and dedication, and her impact will be eternally cherished by those fortunate enough to have known her. Her contributions were integral to the success of Little Joe La Familia, both behind the scenes and in the heart of the family.
Little Joe’s remarkable career, enriched by Criselda’s partnership, has spanned over six decades, yielding more than 70 albums and numerous Grammy Awards. His profound influence on Tejano music has solidified his status as a beloved icon, inspiring generations of musicians to come. Criselda’s role in this journey cannot be overstated; she was truly the First Lady of Little Joe La Familia.
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