Cissy Houston, iconic gospel singer, Whitney Houston’s mom is dead

Cissy Houston, the celebrated gospel singer and mother of Whitney Houston, passed away on Monday at the age of 91.

Surrounded by family, she died peacefully at her home in New Jersey after battling Alzheimer’s disease.

Her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, described the profound loss, calling Cissy the “matriarch” and “a strong and towering figure” in the family’s life.

Houston’s career spanned over seven decades, during which she sang alongside iconic stars such as Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin.

Born in 1933 in New Jersey, she began her journey in music as the youngest of eight siblings, forming a gospel group with her family.

Later, she gained recognition as part of the R&B group, the Sweet Inspirations, performing with Otis Redding, Dusty Springfield, and Van Morrison, contributing vocals to his classic hit “Brown Eyed Girl.”

Cissy eventually launched a successful solo career, collaborating with artists like Chaka Khan, Jimi Hendrix, Beyonce, Paul Simon, and her daughter Whitney.

She won two Grammy Awards for her gospel albums Face to Face and He Leadeth Me. Her memoir, Remembering Whitney offers a heartfelt tribute to her daughter, who passed away in 2012.

The Houston family expressed their gratitude for Cissy’s long life and career, with Pat Houston reflecting on her lasting impact on music and their lives. Cissy now rests alongside her daughter Whitney and granddaughter Bobbi Kristina.