Cissy Houston, the mother of the late Whitney Houston, has passed away at 91. She died peacefully in her New Jersey home, surrounded by family while under hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease. Cissy’s daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, confirmed her death, sharing that the family is heartbroken by the loss. Describing her as the “matriarch of our family,” Pat highlighted Cissy’s deep faith, strength, and unwavering commitment to her family, ministry, and community.
Cissy’s musical career spanned more than seven decades, during which she earned two Grammy Awards and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. She was a member of the Sweet Inspirations, a group that provided backup vocals for music legends like Otis Redding, Lou Rawls, The Drifters, and her niece, Dionne Warwick. Her contributions to music were widely recognized and celebrated, especially as the mother of one of the greatest voices of all time, Whitney Houston.
Beyond her career in music, Cissy was known for her strong convictions and deep religious faith. Her influence extended beyond the stage as she focused on her ministry and community, supporting those around her with compassion and love. She played a key role in Whitney’s rise to stardom, mentoring and guiding her throughout her iconic career.
As the Houston family mourns the loss of this influential figure, the legacy Cissy leaves behind is one of extraordinary talent, faith, and love. Her contributions to the music industry and her role as a family matriarch will be remembered for years to come.
