Whitney Houston's mother Cissy has died at the age of 91

Whitney HoustonCissy Houston, her mother, has died at the age of 91.

Cissy dies 12 years after her daughter's untimely death. The soulful singer passed away in 2012 after a long battle with drug abuse.

Cissy Houston has died at the age of 91

According to TMZ, Cissy's death was originally reported by the Associated Press. The Grammy Award winner was surrounded by her family during her hospice care, the AP reported.

Ms. Houston struggled with Alzheimer's disease.

Sissy Houston's daughter-in-law makes statement

Ms. Houston's daughter-in-law, Pat, released a statement on behalf of the family.

“Mother Cissy was a strong and prominent figure in our lives. A woman of deep faith and conviction who cared deeply about family, pastoral care and community. Her more than seven-decade career in the music and entertainment industry will continue to be at the forefront of our hearts,” Pat said in the statement.

The AP also reported that Pat called Cissy's musical contributions “unprecedented.” Sissy collaborated Elvis Presley. She was also a member of The Sweet Inspirations, who worked as a backing vocalist for many well-known artists including Dionne Warwick.

The group also took part in the recording of Van Morrison's legendary track. “Brown Eyed Girl” and also worked with The Jimi Hendrix experience. Mrs. Houston was on stage with Presley when she made her final appearance with The Sweet Inspirations.