Bobby Brown Speaks Out Following Cissy Houston’s Passing: ‘Rest in Peace and Power’

Bobby Brown has spoken out following the death of his former mother-in-law, legendary gospel singer Cissy Houston. On Monday, the New Edition singer and his wife, Alicia Etheredge-Brown, shared a heartfelt statement with PEOPLE, offering condolences to the Houston family.

“Sending love and blessings to the Houston family on this great loss,” Brown, 55, said. “May she rest in Peace and Power. The Browns.”

Cissy Houston, known not only for her award-winning career in gospel music but also as the mother of Whitney Houston, passed away at her New Jersey home under hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease. Her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, confirmed the news, describing her as a “strong and towering figure” in the family and praising her decades-long contributions to music and culture.

Bobby Brown was married to Whitney Houston for 14 years, during which the pair faced several public struggles, including addiction and marital difficulties. Despite their tumultuous relationship, they shared a deep bond, raising their daughter, Bobbi Kristina, who tragically passed away in 2015, three years after Whitney’s death in 2012.

Cissy remained a protective figure for Whitney throughout her life. Following Brown’s revealing 20/20 interview in 2016, Cissy expressed her disappointment, saying the interview felt more like an exposé on Whitney than a reflection of Bobby’s life.

Despite their complicated past, Bobby Brown’s recent statement reflects a respectful and heartfelt acknowledgment of Cissy Houston’s legacy.

Pat Houston’s statement echoed the family’s sense of loss: “Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family. Her contributions to popular music and culture are unparalleled.” She added, “May she rest in peace, alongside her daughter Whitney and granddaughter Bobbi Kristina.”