Gospel singer Mandisa was found dead at her Nashville home on Thursday. She was 47.
The former “American Idol” contestant and Grammy winner died from unknown causes.
The family asked for prayers in a social media statement on Friday.
“We ask for your prayers for her family and close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time,” the post said. “Mandisa was a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world.”
Mandisa, born Mandisa Lynn Hundley, was morbidly obese and struggled with her weight.
She sang at her church in high school and went on to study vocal performance at American River College. She was a member of the Fisk Jubilee Singers at Fisk University in Nashville, according to online bios.
She is best known as a contestant on the fifth season of “American Idol” in 2006.
Mandisa was a session vocalist and backup singer for Trisha Yearwood and Shania Twain.
She won a Grammy award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for Overcomer in 2013.
