Cissy Houston, the esteemed Grammy-winning soul and gospel artist and beloved mother of the late Whitney Houston, has passed away at her home in New Jersey. She was 91 years old. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, who took to Instagram to express her sorrow.

"It saddens my heart to announce the passing of my beloved Queen Cissy Houston today! Please keep the Houston family in your prayers," Pat wrote, alongside a touching collage of her late mother-in-law.

Born Emily Drinkard on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, Cissy Houston was a trailblazer in the music industry. She began her illustrious career as a member of the gospel group the Drinkard Four, and later, she became a founding member of the celebrated R&B group, The Sweet Inspirations. Throughout her career, Houston provided backup vocals for iconic artists such as Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Otis Redding, and Dionne Warwick.

Houston's music transcended traditional boundaries of gender and race, breaking new ground for Black female artists. Notably, she collaborated with music legends Elvis Presley, Bette Midler, and Linda Ronstadt, accomplishments that were significant during an era when opportunities were limited for African American women in the industry.

Launching her solo career in 1970, Cissy Houston garnered acclaim, winning two Grammy Awards for her outstanding contributions to gospel music. Her influence touched countless musicians, paving the way for future generations in the gospel and soul genres.

Tragically, Cissy's daughter, Whitney Houston, the renowned pop and R&B superstar, died in 2012 at the Beverly Hilton hotel. Whitney's untimely death came as a devastating blow to fans and family alike, with Cissy playing an essential role in her daughter’s career and life.

Cissy Houston's legacy will continue to resonate in the music world, as her talent and perseverance inspired many artists to follow in her footsteps. Her contributions to music and her unwavering support for her family will be remembered as an integral part of her remarkable life. As fans and family mourn her loss, they celebrate the incredible impact she made in the industry and the warmth she brought to those who knew her.