Fort Worth – The Fort Worth Independent School District mourns the loss of Ramon Niño, the longtime mariachi director at North Side High School, who died on Thursday, Nov. 5. His wife, Imelda Martinez, said the cancer diagnosis came suddenly and only about six weeks passed between the diagnosis and his death.

From engineering dreams to music ministry

Both Niño and Martinez originally considered careers in engineering before discovering a shared passion for music. Martinez played violin, while Niño was a trombonist. Their love of music eventually brought them together at Fort Worth ISD.

Niño was born in the small South Texas town of Falfurrias and entered the teaching profession with little experience in mariachi. “He had never taught mariachi. He had never played mariachi,” Martinez recalled. Through his work as a music director, however, Niño embraced the genre, learning from his students who made CDs for him and introduced him to the style. “He let his students teach him,” she said.

24 years of dedication

Over a 24‑year career, Niño became deeply immersed in mariachi, shaping the North Side High School ensemble into a celebrated group. Under his leadership, the ensemble earned an invitation to perform at Carnegie Hall, a testament to his dedication and the talent he cultivated.

Martinez praised her husband’s impact beyond music instruction. “I think everyone’s first instinct is music educator. He is such a great teacher. But more than anything, it was him being able to make you feel seen. His legacy was allowing you feel capable, even when you weren’t sure you could,” she said.

Community remembrance

In the days following his passing, the Fort Worth community rallied around the family, offering condolences and support. At 6 p.m. Thursday, North Side High School will host a candlelight vigil to honor Niño. Attendees are asked to wear his favorite color, yellow, as a tribute to his vibrant spirit.

Martinez expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love from students, colleagues, and community members who have joined her family in mourning. “The students and community have been a great comfort,” she said.

Ramon Niño’s legacy lives on in the countless students he inspired, the music he helped bring to life, and the enduring spirit of the North Side mariachi program.

Original reporting: Richardson, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.