Cissy Houston, a towering figure in gospel music and mother of the late pop icon Whitney Houston, passed away on Monday at 91. 

Pat Houston, Cissy’s daughter-in-law, shared the news with fans on Instagram, posting, “It saddens my heart to announce the passing of my beloved Queen Cissy Houston today! Please keep the Houston family in your prayers.”

She also noted in a statement that the legendary singer died peacefully in her New Jersey home, where she had been receiving hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease.

Born Emily Drinkard in 1933, Cissy Houston rose to prominence in the 1960s as a member of the gospel group The Sweet Inspirations, which gained fame for providing background vocals for legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Dionne Warwick, who is Cissy’s niece. 

With her rich, soulful voice, Houston quickly became known as one of the most respected backup singers of her time.

In 1977, Cissy Houston embarked on a solo career in gospel music, eventually winning two Grammy Awards for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album. 

Her influence extended well beyond her solo work, as she played a pivotal role in shaping the musical careers of both her niece Dionne Warwick and her daughter Whitney Houston, who went on to become one of the most successful and beloved singers in pop music history.

Cissy’s dedication to her craft was unwavering, and her deep love for gospel music was evident throughout her career. 

She continued to perform well into her later years, even as she privately battled Alzheimer’s disease. As the matriarch of one of music’s most famous families, Cissy Houston’s influence stretched far beyond her own achievements. 

She nurtured and guided Whitney’s talents from a young age, giving her the foundation and support needed to rise to international stardom. Their mother-daughter bond was well-documented, and Cissy’s grief following Whitney’s tragic death on February 11 2012 in bathtub drowning was palpable.