Paulino Bernal Jr., a Christian evangelist and accordionist who was part of the Tejano Tex-Mex group Conjunto Bernal, passed away on September 15, 2022, at the age of 62. He was known for spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through music and preaching throughout the United States and Mexico. He also owned and operated several Spanish-language religious radio stations under his La Nuevo Cristiana ministry. His death has saddened many fans and followers who admired his faith and talent. Here is what we know about Paulino Bernal Jr.’s cause of death and his life achievements.
Lung Cancer Diagnosis
According to a statement posted on Facebook by Super Tejano 102, a radio station that played his music, Paulino Bernal Jr. died of lung cancer, which was diagnosed at a late stage. His daughter, Celina Bernal, confirmed this to MyRGV.com, saying that her father deteriorated within a few months of its discovery. She said that he had been feeling unwell for a while, but did not seek medical attention until it was too late. She also said that he did not smoke or drink, and that his cancer was likely caused by environmental factors or genetics.
Final Moments
Celina Bernal told MyRGV.com that her father passed away at Doctor’s Hospital at Renaissance in Edinburg, Texas, surrounded by his family who sang “How Great Thou Art” to him. She said that he was at peace and ready to meet his Lord and Savior. She also said that he had expressed his gratitude to his wife of 43 years, Elizabeth “Liz” Ann Bernal, and his children, Paulino Bernal IV, Cydia Bernal, and Robert Bernal. He was preceded in death by his son, Roland Emmanuel Bernal, and his father, Paulino Deanda Bernal.
Musical Legacy
Paulino Bernal Jr. was born on November 17, 1959, in Kingsville, Texas, and was raised in McAllen, Texas. He started playing the accordion at the age of 12, following the footsteps of his father, who was the founder and leader of Conjunto Bernal. The group was one of the most influential and successful conjunto bands in the 1960s and 1970s, blending traditional Mexican folk music with modern elements such as electric bass and drums. They recorded many hits such as “Mi Unico Camino”, “El Querreque”, and “El Chicano”.
In 1972, Paulino Bernal Jr. converted from Catholicism to Evangelical Protestantism and established Bernal Christian Records to promote his Christian beliefs through music. He recorded several albums of gospel songs with his father and other musicians, such as “Cristo Es Mi Rey”, “El Hijo Prodigo”, and “La Gran Tribulacion”. He also became a pastor and a radio personality, reaching millions of listeners with his message of salvation and hope. He owned and operated over a dozen radio stations under his La Nuevo Cristiana ministry.
In 2008, Paulino Bernal Jr. released a new album of polkas produced by Grammy-winning producer Armando Lichtenberger Jr., titled “El Maestro Del Acordeon Y Sus Polkas” on Urbana Records. The album earned him his first Grammy nomination for Best Polka Album for the 51st Annual Grammys. He continued to perform and record until his health declined.
Tributes and Condolences
Many fans and friends have expressed their condolences and tributes to Paulino Bernal Jr. on social media, remembering him as a great musician and a man of God. Some of them are:
- “Rest in peace Paulino Bernal Jr. You were an amazing accordion player and evangelist. Your music touched many lives. You will be greatly missed.” – Juanita Garcia
- “My deepest sympathy to the Bernal family. Paulino Bernal Jr. was a legend in the Tejano music industry and a faithful servant of the Lord. His songs inspired me to follow Christ. Thank you for your legacy.” – Carlos Rodriguez
- “I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Paulino Bernal Jr. He was one of my favorite accordionists and preachers. I grew up listening to his music and radio programs. He was a blessing to many people. May he rest in heavenly peace.” – Maria Lopez
