Paquita la del Barrio's Family Announces Plans For A Public Funeral

En español

24 hours after her passing in Veracruz, Mexico, the family of Paquita la del Barrio has announced plans for a public funeral. The iconic Mexican singer died in her sleep on Monday morning, February 17, at the age of 77.

According to her nephew and manager, Francisco Torres, the remains of "La Guerrillera del Bolero" were kept for a wake overnight and will be cremated in Veracruz, following the wishes of her children and other relatives.

"On Friday, we will take her to her place in Colonia Guerrero for a small wake and tribute. We want people from the neighborhood to join us, and anyone who wishes to send a wreath or any offering can do so there," he added.

Casa Paquita

Her "place" refers to Casa Paquita, the restaurant/bar that Francisca "Paquita" Viveros Barradas dedicated much of her life to, balancing her time between family, the stage, and the venue. Located in Mexico City, Casa Paquita was her pride until it was forced to close due to permit issues with local authorities.

Situated at 202 Zarco Street in Colonia Guerrero, Cuauhtémoc, Casa Paquita played a key role in hercareer. It was there that, while serving barbecued meat, she honed her performances, built her reputation, and connected with fans and fellow artists.

Her dream was to reopen the venue, but bureaucratic hurdles prevented her from doing so.

Even before the family's official plans, neighbors and fans in Mexico City had already begun paying tribute, leaving yellow flowers at Casa Paquita's entrance.

An epic musical tribute

Despite her passing, her final concert date at Mexico City's Auditorio Nacional on March 16 remains unchanged.

Initially planned as a performance from Paquita, the event will now become a tribute concert. Fellow artists will join La Sonora Santanera, who was set to perform with her, to celebrate Paquita's legacy and sing her greatest hits.

Tickets already purchased for the show will remain valid for the tribute event.