Vale Mandisa: Thank You for the Music

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The Christian music scene was devastated by the news of Mandisa’s death this week.

Key points

Mandisa was born in Citrus Heights in California as Mandisa Lynn Hunley and died at her home in Franklin, Tennessee on April 18, 2024, aged 47.
Fans of her music have taken to social media, to express their grief and gratitude for the woman who was willing to be honest about her struggles, if it meant helping others.

The 47-year-old was found unconscious in her home in Franklin, Tennessee.

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

“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,” the statement continues.

“Her own words say it best.”

I’m already home
You’ve got to lay it down
’cause Jesus holds me now—
And I am not alone

Public outpouring of love

Mandisa was born in Citrus Heights in California as Mandisa Lynn Hunley and died at her home in Franklin, Tennessee on April 18, 2024, aged 47.

Mandisa was a Grammy, Dove and KLove Fan Award Winner and began her career after finishing 9th in the fifth season of American Idol.

With songs like, ‘Overcomer’ and ‘Unfinished’, her music has left an incredible impact on people around the world with people taking to social media, to express their grief and gratitude for the woman who was willing to be honest about her struggles, if it meant helping others.

“One of the few Christian artists who was open about her doubts alongside her faith,” one comment said.

“Her sincerity and honesty when dealing with life’s uncertainties reminds me of David’s heart in the Psalms.

“We really lost a great human and artist, it will always sting a little listening to her songs now.”

Fans have flooded social media to express their grief and gratitude for the woman who was willing to be honest about her struggles.

While others imagined the scenes playing out in Heaven.

“I’m forever grateful for the impact she had on my life,” said author and speaker Lysa TerKeurst.

“She will be so incredibly missed.

“She sang like an angel here.

“I can only imagine what she sounds like in heaven today.”

This fan was impacted by Mandisa’s music, during an incredibly difficult time.

“‘Overcomer’ was my mantra after being diagnosed with stage 4 kidney disease at age 27.

“God used that song to help me overcome the depression of that diagnosis, dialysis, and a kidney and pancreas transplant.

“The way my mom and I would drive home and sing that song as loud as we could!

“God knew I needed your gift, loving spirit and beautiful voice.

Her impact lives on

96five’s Nicky shared how the song ‘Good Morning’ played an important part as she began her journey as a radio announcer.

Now I’m smiling and I’m kissing all my worries goodbye
Got the feeling if I spread my wings I might even fly
You are my truth, my way
Give me the strength to say
Get up, get up, get up
Ooh ’cause it’s a good morning

With such a big heart, Mandisa gave everything she could, to bring hope to the world, pointing all of us to Jesus. Her impact is sure to live on.

Listen to 96five’s Brissy Brekky tribute in the player above.