Cissy Houston, the acclaimed Grammy-winning singer and mother of the beloved late singer and actress Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. Cissy died on Monday, surrounded by her family at her home in New Jersey, where she had been receiving hospice care due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
A formidable presence in her own right, Cissy Houston is remembered for her deep faith and strong convictions. Her musical journey began in 1938, when she started singing gospel with her siblings, eventually rising to prominence as a backup singer for an array of music legends including Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Jimi Hendrix among others. Her partnerships extended to work with icons such as Beyoncé, Luther Vandross, and Burt Bacharach.
Cissy Houston also achieved great success as a solo artist, securing two Grammy Awards for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album with her albums “Face to Face” and “He Leadeth Me” released in 1997 and 1998, respectively.
Originally from Newark, New Jersey, and the youngest of eight siblings, Cissy Houston’s own life was steeped in musical tradition. She leaves behind three children, including her famous daughter Whitney and Gary Garland, a former NBA basketball player.
Her death was initially reported by the Associated Press and has evoked a wave of tributes from family, friends, and fans. They celebrate her substantial influence on music and her consistent, solid faith.
Cissy Houston’s impact stretches beyond her personal achievements in music; she was a source of strength and inspiration not only to her family but also to the broader music community. Her absence will undoubtedly be felt profoundly by those who knew and admired her.
Cissy Houston will be laid to rest, leaving behind a legacy marked by incredible musical contributions and enduring family values.
