Cissy Houston, the legendary gospel and soul singer, two-time Grammy winner, and mother of the late Whitney Houston, passed away at 91. According to her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, Cissy died Monday morning at home under hospice care for Alzheimer's disease.

Born Emily Drinkard on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, Cissy began her career in the 1950s as a member of the gospel group The Drinkard Singers, which included her siblings. The group was a staple in the gospel community, and their influence laid the foundation for her illustrious career.

Cissy gained widespread recognition in the 1960s and 1970s as a session singer, lending her vocals to countless hit records by artists such as Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, Dionne Warwick (her niece), and Wilson Pickett. Her distinctive soprano and ability to sing a wide range of genres, from gospel to pop and R&B, made her one of the most sought-after backing vocalists in the industry.

In 1977, she embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums that showcased her versatility, including Think It Over (1978), which earned her a Grammy nomination. Though her solo career was respected, Cissy is perhaps best known as the mother of superstar Whitney Houston. Cissy played an instrumental role in shaping Whitney’s career, nurturing her talent from a young age, and offering her guidance throughout her rise to fame.

Cissy has also made significant contributions to gospel music, winning two Grammy Awards for Best Traditional Gospel Album, in 1996 and 1998. She has remained a powerful presence in music, with her work in both gospel and R&B leaving a lasting legacy.

In addition to her musical accomplishments, Cissy has been an advocate for causes close to her heart, including drug addiction recovery, following the tragic death of her daughter Whitney in 2012. Her memoir, Remembering Whitney (2013), reflects her life, career, and the deep love she has for her family.