Mandisa, a Grammy Award-winning singer and American Idol alumna, has died at the age of 47

Mandisa, the Grammy Award-winning singer who won a Grammy for her performance on the "American Idol" show, died Thursday at the age of 47, her representative confirmed to CBS News.

"At this time, we don't know the cause of death or further details", her rep told CBS News, adding that the singer was found dead in her home.

"We ask for your prayers for her family and close circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time", the spokesperson said.

Statements posted on her social media pages say, "Mandisa has been a voice of encouragement and truth for people facing life's challenges around the world", and her own words say it best.

"I'm already home.

You have to put it down

Because Jesus is holding me now....

And I'm not alone".

Mandisa was born in 1976 in Sacramento, California. She sang in her church and studied vocal at American River College and then at Fisk University in Nashville. She placed 9th in the fifth season of the popular singing competition American Idol, and after she was eliminated, took up Christian music and wrote extensively about her faith in memoirs and music. She became one of the few "American Idol" alumnae to win a Grammy. Other notable winners include Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood and Jennifer Hudson.

In 2014, she won the "Best Contemporary Christian Music Album" award for her album "Overcomer". Mandisa received 5 nominations including Best Pop/Modern Gospel Album in 2007 and 2009.