Breaking: Grammy-Winning Singer Dead at 47

Christian singer Mandisa, who gained fame on “American Idol” nearly two decades ago, passed away on Thursday at 47 years old.

Her death was confirmed by the Christian radio network K-Love.

According to The Tennessean, the beloved singer was found deceased inside her Nashville home. The cause of death is not known at this time.

A representative for Mandisa, whose full name was Mandisa Lynn Hundley, asked for prayers for her family in a statement to the newspaper.

“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased,” the statement read.

“At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time.”

K-Love's chief media officer, David Pierce, said in a statement that while her sudden death is tragic, Mandisa “loved Jesus” and is now “home” after a long battle with her own “personal struggles.”

“Mandisa loved Jesus, and she used her unusually extensive platform to talk about Him at every turn. Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, her voice massive, but it was no match for the size of her heart,” Pierce said.

Pierce concluded:

“Mandisa struggled, and she was vulnerable enough to share that with us, which helped us talk about our own struggles. Mandisa’s struggles are over. She is with the God she sang about now. While we are saddened, Mandisa is home. We’re praying for Mandisa’s family and friends and ask you to join us.”

Mandisa’s rise to fame began in 2005 on “American Idol,” where an exchange with judge Simon Cowell endeared her to fans.

Cowell made several comments about Mandisa’s weight, but she responded with humility and kindness.

After Cowell commented that the show needed “a bigger stage” for her and compared her size to that of France, Mandisa confronted him.

“You hurt me and I cried,” she told Cowell. “But I want you to know that I’ve forgiven you.”

Mandisa added that one doesn't need an apology to choose forgiveness.

“If Jesus could die so that all of my sins could be forgiven then I can certainly extend that same grace to you.”

Cowell admitted that Mandisa’s words “humbled” him, and the two embraced.

Although she didn’t win the competition, Mandisa had a successful career as one of the country’s most popular contemporary Christian artists.