Legendary Gospel Singer Cissy Houston, Mother of Whitney Houston, Dies at 91

Cissy Houston, the Grammy-winning gospel singer and mother of Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. She died on Monday morning in her New Jersey home under hospice care, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease, surrounded by family members. Her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, confirmed the news, expressing deep grief over the loss of their family matriarch. Pat described Cissy as a “strong and towering figure,” highlighting her profound impact on family, faith, and the world of music.

Cissy Houston’s career spanned over seven decades, beginning in the late 1930s when she joined her siblings to form the gospel group, The Drinkard Singers. She later became part of The Sweet Inspirations, a backup group that worked with major artists such as Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Otis Redding. Her career as a session singer was just as prolific, lending her voice to over 600 songs across multiple genres, collaborating with legends such as Jimi Hendrix, Paul Simon, and her daughter Whitney.

Cissy won two Grammy Awards, both for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album, in 1997 and 1998. She also authored several books, including her heartfelt memoir, Remembering Whitney, in which she candidly reflected on her daughter’s struggles with addiction and tragic passing in 2012. Cissy is remembered not just for her powerful voice, but for her unwavering faith and devotion to her family.

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The Houston family has asked for privacy during this difficult time as they mourn the loss of a beloved mother, grandmother, and iconic singer