Jennifer Hudson has led tributes to legendary soul and gospel singer Cissy Houston.
On Monday, Pat Houston announced her mother-in-law had died at her home in Newark, New Jersey after being in hospice care for Alzheimer’s Disease. She was 91.
“Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We loss the matriarch of our family,” she said in a statement. “A woman of deep faith and conviction, who cared greatly about family, ministry, and community. Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts.”
Following the sad news, Jennifer took to X to post a heartfelt message in memory of Cissy, who was the mother of late superstar Whitney Houston. The I Will Always Love You hitmaker died in 2012 at the age of 48.
“Cissy Houston, what a life you lived!” Jennifer exclaimed. “You have shared so much with the world – now rest in your eternal reward. I can only imagine the great reunion taking place in heaven today. Get that heavenly choir together!!”
Elsewhere, Tyler Perry took to Instagram to share a photo of Cissy, Whitney, and Bobbi Kristina Brown.
Whitney’s daughter Bobbi, whom she shared with Bobby Brown, died three years after her mother at the age of 22.
“Hard to believe that all three generations of these women have all passed on,” he commented. “Today with a humble heart and much sadness I say goodbye to the incredible Cissy Houston. What a voice, what a laugh, what a heart. Rest well in the arms of the Jesus that you told us all about.”
In addition, Bobby has issued a statement regarding Cissy’s passing.
The musician was married to Whitney from 1992 until their divorce was finalised in 2007.
“Sending love and blessings to the Houston family on this great loss,” he told People. “May she rest in Peace and Power. The Browns.”
Born Emily Drinkard, Cissy was a founding member of R&B group The Sweet Inspirations and also sang backup vocals for artists including her niece Dionne Warwick, Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Chaka Khan.
She launched a solo career in 1970, and later, won two Grammy Awards in the Traditional Gospel Album category.
