Music World Mourns After Gospel Star Passes
Cissy Houston, the revered gospel singer and mother of the late Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. She died peacefully at her home in Newark, New Jersey, surrounded by her loved ones. Born Emily Drinkard on September 30, 1933, Cissy had been receiving hospice care due to Alzheimer’s disease. Her family shared their profound sorrow at her passing, honoring her as the family’s matriarch and a symbol of unwavering strength and faith.
Cissy’s illustrious career spanned over seventy years, during which she made significant contributions to gospel music and the wider musical landscape. She won two Grammy Awards for her albums, “Face to Face” (1997) and “He Leadeth Me” (1999). With her powerful and soulful voice, Cissy Houston lent her talents as a backing vocalist to iconic artists, including Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley. Beyond Whitney, who tragically passed away in 2012, Cissy was part of a remarkable family of musicians, including her nieces, Dee Dee Warwick and Dionne Warwick.
The New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, where Cissy served as choir director for more than five decades, announced her passing and shared plans to celebrate her life and legacy. The church expressed gratitude for her numerous contributions and urged the community to keep the Houston family in their thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.
In the wake of her death, many notable figures from both the gospel and entertainment communities expressed their condolences. Gospel singer Kurt Carr reflected on the wisdom Cissy shared during their discussions, while media mogul Tyler Perry mourned the loss of three generations of Houston women, highlighting Cissy’s significant impact and lasting legacy.
Bobby Brown, Cissy’s former son-in-law, also expressed his condolences, sending love and blessings to the Houston family. He articulated a wish for her to rest in peace and power, encapsulating the deep sense of loss felt by all who knew and cherished her. Cissy Houston’s remarkable contributions to music and her role as a loving matriarch will forever be remembered and celebrated by many.