Forever In Our Hearts…
Cherished memories provide a foundation that helps us to continue our mission while reminding us of the importance of synergy and good relationships. We reflect upon our past experiences and the impact of those who have contributed to the NABFEME journey.
Dr. Emily “Cissy” Houston
Dr. Emily “Cissy” Houston, affectionately known as Cissy Houston was a celebrated two-time Grammy Award-winning recording artist and the proud mother of legendary singer Whitney Houston. A musical powerhouse in her own right, Cissy was a sought-after backup vocalist who collaborated with a remarkable array of artists across various genres, including icons like Aretha Franklin, Beyoncé, Chaka Khan, Luther Vandross, Elvis Presley, and countless others. For over 50 years, Cissy served as the Minister of Music at New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, NJ, enriching the community with her talent and passion for music. Her impressive solo career includes a collaboration with The Drinkard Singers, four albums with the Sweet Inspirations, and over ten solo albums and compilations. Cissy played a key role in forming the original lineup of the Sweet Inspirations alongside legendary talents Doris Troy and her nieces Dionne and Dee Dee Warwick, celebrated for their big hit “Sweet Inspiration.” A member of NABFEME and a revered “Celebrity Mom,” Cissy Houston was inducted into the New Jersey Hall of Fame in 2020, solidifying her legacy as an icon and trailblazer in entertainment. Cissy passed on October 7, 2024 at the age of 91.
Vanessa Barryer
Vanessa, a former DJ in Longview, TX was one of the founding board members of NABFEME. She was passionate about the organization and worked tirelessly to achieve meaningful results. Vanessa transformed her love for music into a successful career as a record executive, where she spent numerous years nurturing talent and promoting the artists signed to Arista Records. Her legacy lives on after her passing on December 3, 2019.
Ruby Dee
Ruby Dee was a remarkable American actress, poet, playwright, screenwriter, journalist, and civil rights advocate. She was married to actor Ossie Davis, performing together until his passing in 2005. As a dedicated supporter of NABFEME, Ruby Dee was honored at the 2007 International Women’s Leadership Summit in Charlotte, NC as a NABFEME Shero highlighting her commitment to empowering women in the arts. Throughout her illustrious career, Ruby Dee earned numerous prestigious accolades, such as an Emmy Award, a Grammy Award, and an Academy Award nomination, showcasing her immense talent. In recognition of her contributions, she received the National Medal of Arts in 1995, the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2000, and the Kennedy Center Honors in 2004—a testament to her impact on American culture.
In 1965, Ruby Dee made history as the first African American woman to star in major roles at the American Shakespeare Festival in Stratford, CT. She also broke barriers as the first Black actress to secure a feature role on a prime-time television show, “Peyton Place.” Her later works, including “The Way Back Home” (2006) and “American Gangster” (2007), further solidified her legacy. In “American Gangster,” her portrayal of a drug kingpin’s mother earned her a well-deserved Academy Award nomination, cementing her status as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
Dee Dee Cocheta
Dee Dee was a major influencer in the hip-hop and music scene in Atlanta, and her nickname “Hip Hop Mama,” fit her like a glove! She served as the NABFEME Atlanta Network Director for many years, implementing numerous outstanding projects and programs. On January 9, 2014, our beloved “Hip Hop Mama” passed away after a courageous fight against Stage 4 breast cancer. Dee Dee was the mother of seven children and grandmother of three. She was an award-winning public relations and marketing professional, and the principal strategist/publicist for ABC Publicity. Her career covered an extensive list of artists, record labels, and entertainment companies.
Mercyline “Mike” Bernardo
In the world of music, Mercyline “Mike” Bernardo was a true trailblazer. As the former VP of Uptown Records and VP of Promotion at Mercury Records, she broke barriers as the first Black woman to become a regional promotions manager at CBS. Her leadership extended to overseeing the promotion and marketing of all Black music product on Columbia, Epic, and the associated (EPA) labels as the National Director of Promotions. Her impact was profound, and she was affectionately known as “Mama Mike” for her many years of mentorship and dedication to helping children in crisis through the 331 Foundation. Her legacy lives on, inspiring future generations to follow in her footsteps. A longtime supporter of NABFEME, Mike passed away on March 14, 2012.
We Remember Our Celebrity Moms
The NABFEME Celebration of the Celebrity Mom showcased a powerful “Lifetime of Love,” honoring the “Quiet Champions” behind many renowned superstars. These remarkable women, fierce and fearless, often stood in the shadows, supporting their children with unwavering dedication. They are the unsung coaches of the entertainment world, instinctively knowing from the first moment they cradled their child that he or she was destined for greatness. Gone, but never forgotten… we will always celebrate their contributions.
🙏🏾 We remember so that others do not forget. 🙏🏾
