Cissy Houston, Grammy-winning gospel icon and Whitney Houston's mother, passes away at 91

Cissy Houston, a two-time Grammy-winning gospel and mother of Whitney Houston, passed away at 91 on October 7 at her New Jersey home, where she was receiving hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease. Her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, confirmed that she was surrounded by family at the time of her death.

Her daughter-in-law expressed deep sorrow, saying, ‘Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We’ve lost the matriarch of our family. Mother Cissy was a strong and influential presence, guided by faith and devotion to her family, ministry, and community. Her more than seven decades in music and entertainment will always remain close to our hearts.’

She added, ‘Her contributions to popular music and culture are unparalleled.’

More about Cissy Houston

Cissy Houston’s illustrious music career spanned over seven decades, starting as a gospel singer in a family group before making her mark in popular music during the 1960s. She became a key member of The Sweet Inspirations, a renowned backing group that worked with icons like Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Van Morrison.

The group also provided backing vocals for legendary artists such as Otis Redding, Dionne Warwick, and Lou Rawls. They famously contributed to hits like Aretha Franklin's ‘Think’ and ‘(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,’ and Dusty Springfield’s ‘Son of a Preacher Man.’

Beyond her work with The Sweet Inspirations, Cissy had a successful solo career, recording over 600 songs across various genres. She won two Grammy Awards for her gospel albums Face to Face and He Leadeth Me and collaborated with artists like Jimi Hendrix, Luther Vandross, and Chaka Khan.

A devout member of the church, Cissy also led the Youth Inspirational Choir at Newark’s New Hope Baptist Church, where her daughter, Whitney Houston, first found her voice.

On behalf of the family, Pat Houston expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this challenging time and requested privacy as they mourn Cissy’s passing.

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