American gospel singer MANDISA (Mandisa Lynn Huntley) died on Thursday 18th April. She was aged 47 and the news was announced via an Instagram posting: “We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased. 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. Mandisa was a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world.” No more details are available save that The Franklin, Tennessee Police Department is currently investigating her passing. It’s well known that the singer had struggled with both depression and an eating disorder. She bravely wrote about both in her autobiography.
Born in California, Mandisa rose to fame on the fifth season of American Idol when she finished in ninth place. Some of judge Simon Cowell’s comments about her size and weight caused a US media storm.
Mandisa’s talent and Christian faith saw a recording deal with gospel label Sparrow where she debuted with an album ‘True Beauty’ – titled as a riposte to Cowell’s cruel comments. The album was a #1 gospel hit and later albums followed that successful trajectory with her 2014 set, ‘Overcomer’ winning the Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian album
