Puerto Rican legend, Willie Colon has passed away at the age of 75. He is survived by his wife, Julia Colon, and their kids. Here's everything to know about her.
Willie Colon's death has left the music world in shock. The Puerto Rico icon bid farewell to the world at the age of 75 on February 21, 2026. According to a statement shared by his family, the legendary composer and music producer "passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones." However, his death is a major loss to Latin music. Amid the same, public focus had shifted to his personal life, especially his wife, Julia Colon Craig, who stood by him throughout his decades-long career. According to ABC7, Willie Colon is survived by Julia and their children, who stood by him during his final moments.
Willie Colon's wife, Julia Colon, has mostly stayed out of the spotlight despite being married to one of salsa's most influential figures. Julia was married to Willie for more than 3 decades. Simultaneously, they raised three of his four kids. Unlike her husband, who lived much of his life in public view, Julia preferred to maintain a private life. She focuses on their family and supporting Willie's career behind the scenes. She was also credited in creative circles, including biographical documentation of Willie's career for her role in preserving his artistic legacy.
Julia first made headlines in all these years when she and Willie Colon were involved in a serious recreational vehicle accident in North Carolina in April 2021. According to Hindustan Times and NPR, the crash left both of them with significant injuries. Willie especially suffered head trauma and spinal complications. On the other hand, Julia was also injured but was discharged from the hospital sooner than her husband. The accident marked a difficult chapter for the couple because Willie took a long time to recover, and despite the trauma, Julia was by his side. Her constant presence helped him face the pressures of a professional music career and health rehabilitation.
The exact cause of Willie Colon's death has not yet been confirmed. But multiple outlets, including NPR and Hindustan Times, reported that he was hospitalised in New York due to respiratory problems. Willie's fellow musician, Rubén Blades, also publicly shared a message expressing his concern and extending his support after learning that the Salsa legend had been urgently transferred to a hospital for treatment. However, it is unclear whether those respiratory complications directly caused his death or not. Notably, Willie's death came after a long history of health challenges, including severe injuries from a 2021 accident.
Willie Anthony Colón Román was born in the South Bronx. According to NPR and Fania Records, Willie redefined salsa as both a musical genre and a cultural movement. He began his career at the age of 16 with his debut album, El Malo. Willie worked on his debut album with vocalist, Héctor Lavoe. Eventually, they worked together and went on to produce iconic songs such as Calle Luna, Calle Sol, Abuelita, El Día de Mi Suerte, La Murga, and Juana Peña. Willie has released more than 30 albums in his career. In turn, he received multiple Gold and Platinum certifications, with numerous Grammy nominations. At the same time, he worked with legendary artists such as Rubén Blades and Celia Cruz.
Rest in peace, Willie Colon.
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