Emilio Navaira laid to rest in San Antonio
SAN ANTONIO, TX (KTRK) -- Monday was a day of remembrance for Tejano fans saying goodbye to an icon in the industry. Tejano stars joined family and friends in downtown San Antonio for his funeral.
It was a sad day for the Tejano music scene. Fans crowded around Emilio Navaira's casket. His family close behind in tears. Emilio was the king of Tejano and just like Selena he made the genre popular among the Hispanic community.
"They paved the path it's just unbelievable," said Mark Martinez, close friend and band mate.
Martinez said they have been celebrating his life all week. Emilio died Tuesday after sufferng a heart attack in his New Braunfels home. No one expected him to die at just 53 years old.
"Yeah miss him it's very tough right now," said Martinez.
Martinez shared some fond memories of him with Eyewitness News.
WATCH NOW: Fans Gather To Pay Respects To Late Tejano Star Emilio Navaira
"I recorded music with him, he stood at my wedding," he said. "His son Emilio was my ring barer."
Martinez is grateful for a loyal friendship and a great experience.
"Touring with Alan Jackson and Clay Walker those guys," he remembered.
Even though they all said goodbye to a Tejano legend they know his music will go down in history.
"I love you Emilio," he said.
