A relapse in his state of health caused his death minutes before three in the morning of June 21, 1988. He had been greatly affected by the death of his mother, which occurred the previous year. It is said that he was one of the pioneers of the Spanish song, of which he recorded several dozen albums, with hits such as La Campanera, Dos Cruces and Mi Escapulario. Among his best-known songs are also The Ship of Oblivion, Black Dove, But Pray For Me, Paper Doll, Only Smile and Consuelo The Cantaora. The movie "The Angel of Spain" gave him great popularity throughout Latin America, where he was already known by this name. Pedrito Rico was distinguished in 1980 with the Medal of Merit at Work for his dedication to Spanish folk music. The mortal remains of the singer were transferred to his hometown, where they were buried. In Elda, the loss of the singer caused a deep impression. The ardent chapel, after the arrival of his mortal remains, was installed in the headquarters of the local Assembly of The Red Cross, as his house was insufficient to receive the testimony of pain from his friends and admirers. Pedrito Rico used to spend a summer season in his hometown, although his favorite place to spend the summer was the town of Benidorm, also in Alicante, where he had a house. He also owned another residence in Buenos Aires, where he spent most of the year and was his center of operations during his seasons of performances.