Mandisa’s cause of death released: Christian singer, American Idol star was 47

A cause of death for Mandisa has been released.

The Grammy winner and American Idol favorite died of complications of class III obesity, People is reporting. Mandisa, whose full name was Mandisa Hundley, died at her Nashville home on April 18 at the age of 47. At the time, police said there was no indication her death was the result of suspicious or criminal activity.

Class III obesity, the condition formerly known as morbid obesity, is when a person has a body mass index, or BMI, of 40 or higher or a BMI of 35 or higher and experiences obesity-related health issues, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Mandisa’s manner of death was listed as natural, People reported.

READ MORE: ‘American Idol’ pays tribute to Mandisa: See all-star take on ‘Shackles’

At the time of her death, Mandisa’s friends praised her for her remarkable voice and authenticity.

“I have never met an artist who is more encouraging and supportive to other artists than Mandisa. She was honest and authentic but I always left her side feeling better. I was honored to call her friend,” Christian artist TobyMac said in a statement.

A California native, Mandisa rose to national prominence during season five of “American Idol,” where she finished in the top 9. She released her debut album, “True Beauty,” in 2007. Her biggest release, “Overcomer,” earned her a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.

Through the course of her career, Mandisa released five full-length projects and one Christmas LP. She also released a memoir, “Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God’s Joy,” in 2022, in which she chronicled her battles against depression and weight.