In 1938 , five - year - old Cissy 's mother Delia suffered a stroke and died of cerebral hemorrhage three years later .
Her parents emphasized the children getting educated and being involved in the church , and her father encouraged Houston and her siblings to sing .
In 1938 , five - year - old Houston 's mother Delia suffered a stroke and died of cerebral hemorrhage three years later .
Her parents emphasized the children getting educated and being involved in the church , and her father encouraged Houston and her siblings to sing .