Cissy Houston, a powerhouse of gospel music and the mother of the late Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91, her family confirmed. The Grammy-winning singer died peacefully at her home in New Jersey after battling Alzheimer’s disease, surrounded by loved ones.
In a statement, daughter-in-law Pat Houston shared the family’s grief, saying, “We lost the matriarch of our family, a strong and towering figure.” The Houston family, often in the public eye, has now lost another cornerstone, but Cissy’s profound legacy will continue to inspire.
Cissy Houston’s career spanned more than 70 years, during which she performed with musical greats such as Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Chaka Khan. She first made her mark in the 1960s as part of the R&B group the Sweet Inspirations, backing icons like Otis Redding, Dionne Warwick, and even contributing vocals to Van Morrison’s hit, Brown Eyed Girl.
Her musical journey later blossomed into a celebrated solo career, with Cissy earning two Grammy Awards for her gospel albums Face to Face and He Leadeth Me. Her collaborations included legendary artists like Paul Simon and her own daughter, Whitney, showcasing a rare talent that transcended genres.
Born in Newark, New Jersey in 1933, Cissy was the youngest of eight children. Music was in her blood, and she started young, forming a gospel group with her siblings before rising to prominence. Her work with the Sweet Inspirations cemented her place in music history, but it was her gospel roots that brought her the most recognition. In 1997, she won her first Grammy, and in her later years, she continued to perform, even singing with Aretha Franklin in a memorable performance on The Late Show with David Letterman at age 80.
In addition to her storied career, Houston authored three books, including Remembering Whitney: A Mother’s Story of Life, Loss and The Night The Music Stopped, a heartfelt memoir reflecting on her daughter’s life and tragic passing.
As her family remembers her strength and grace, Pat Houston expressed gratitude for Cissy’s long life, stating, “Her more than seven-decade career will remain at the forefront of our hearts.”
Cissy Houston’s voice, both in life and music, will continue to resonate as a beacon of faith, love, and resilience. She now rests in peace, reunited with her beloved daughter Whitney and granddaughter Bobbi Kristina.
