While family, friends, and fans are mourning the death of Christian artist Mandisa, many are also remembering her Christ-like example on American Idol when host Simon Cowell made several hurtful remarks regarding her weight.

Mandisa appeared on season five of the show, in 2005. During her audition for the show, judge Simon Cowell made several jokes about her weight saying, "Do we have a bigger stage this year?" after the singer had been given her golden ticket to Hollywood.

Co-host Paula Abdul then said Mandisa had "like a Frenchy growl" in her voice. Cowell then interrupted and said that a more appropriate comparison would be to the country of France. 

The joke prompted complaints from the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance. 

Later in the season, Mandisa finally responded to Cowell.

"What I want to say to you is that, yes, you hurt me and I cried and it was painful, it really was. But I want you to know that I've forgiven you and that you don't need someone to apologize in order to forgive somebody," she said.

"I figure that if Jesus could die so that all of my wrongs could be forgiven, I can certainly extend that same grace to you."

Cowell did apologize and said that Mandisa's example was humbling. 

Christian author Sarah Geringer was one of many people to remember the display of forgiveness when eulogizing Mandisa on Friday. "Her music and example of forgiveness on American Idol made a big impact on me," Geringer says.

Mandisa finished the show in ninth place.

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