ET, at her home in Newark, New Jersey, while under hospice care for Alzheimers disease."
She described “Mother Cissy” as “a strong and towering figure in our lives.
A woman of deep faith and conviction, who cared greatly about family, ministry, and community.
Cissy Houston in 2017.Paras Griffin/Getty
Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts.
Her contributions to popular music and culture are unparalleled.”
She later formed the group Sweet Inspirations with Dee Dee and “Just One Look” singer Doris Troy.
Cissy Houston in 1977.Gems/Redferns/Getty
Sweet Inspirations accompaniedAretha FranklinonLady Soul, Van Morrison onBlowin' Your Mind!, andJimi HendrixonElectric Ladyland.
Houston had a second career that lasted almost as long as her professional singing career.
The Radio Choir performed at Carnegie Hall with the United Negro College Fund Choir in 1974.
Gems/Redferns/Getty
Cissy had daughter Whitney with John Russell Houston Jr. in 1963.
Houston also said goodbye to her granddaughter Bobbi Kristina, whodiedin 2015 at 22 years old.
