Willie Colón

William Anthony (Willie) Colón Roman, 75, passed away peacefully on February 21st, 2026 at New York Presbyterian Hospital in Bronxville, New York. He is survived by his wife of 49 years Julia Colón Craig, sons William David (Rose) Colón, Adam Diego Colón, Alejandro Miguel (Nell) Colón, Patrick Antonio Colón, sister Isabell (Michael Johnson) Brentson, six grandchildren Rose and William Colón, Damien Colón, Valentino, Elena, and Inez Colón, three great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Willie Colón was a pioneering salsa musician, trombonist, composer, and producer whose bold sound helped define Latin music for the last 60 years. Born in the Bronx, New York of Puerto Rican heritage, his influence extended beyond music into activism and public service, making him not only a cultural icon but also a respected community voice. While the world will remember his music, his family will cherish his humor, his heroic example, and fierce loving spirit.

Private visitation will be held for family and friends Saturday March 7th, 3:00pm - 8:00 p.m.

McMahon, Lyon & Hartnett Funeral Home, 491 Mamaroneck Avenue, White Plains, New York 10605.

A public funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick's Cathedral on Monday March 9th, 9:30am.

631 5th Avenue, New York, New York 10022

Private burial.

In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor his life by supporting the ILD program at Columbia University. Contributions made in his name will help advance research and care for others living with this challenging disease.

https://joinus.cuimc.columbia.edu/participant/WillieColonILDresearch1279