Whitney Houston’s Mother, Cissy Houston, Dies At 91

The estate of Whitney Houston confirmed the death of Whitney Houston’s mother, Cissy Houston, via a statement to The Times. The two-time Grammy winner died in hospice care at her New Jersey home after battling Alzheimer’s disease for years.

Like her late daughter Whitney, Cissy was known for her impactful gospel music and memorable collaborations with Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin. In addition to Aretha, who was her godmother, Cissy was one of Whitney’s biggest inspirations. 

Tributes to Cissy Houston

Cissy’s daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, is married to her ex-NBA player son, Gary Houston. She is called the late matriarch, a woman of deep faith and conviction, commending her music career of over 80 years. Despite fame, Cissy was a dedicated mother and was present in her community, especially at the church.

Fans also took to social media to pay their tribute as soon as media outlets broke the news. “Now Cissy can be with Whitney and Bobby Christina in heaven. May they all rest and find peace,” someone wrote, remembering Cissy’s late granddaughter. “Gone, but never forgotten. Always the best, the immortal Cissy Houston,” another added.

Cissy Houston’s life and career

Cissy’s career began in 1938 with her siblings Anne, Larry, and Nicky, who formed the Drinkard Four. Dionne Warwick’s mother would later join the group, often performing together at their church and later Carnegie Hall and the Newport Jazz Festival. Cissy also got her first TV appearance as a part of the band and eventually nurtured her solo career after a successful run with the group.

Away from music, Cissy was married twice, first to Freddie Garland and then to John Russell— with whom she had Whitney and her older brother Michael. She also authored a book in tribute to Whitney, Remembering Whitney: My Story of Love, Loss, and the Night the Music Stopped, where she described her battle with her daughter’s addiction and eventual death in 2012.