Jennifer Hudson Mourns Death of 'American Idol' Colleague

L: Jennifer Hudson, R: Debra Byrd

Jennifer Hudson is honoring her late teacher, former American Idol vocal coach Debra Byrd, following the singer's death.

Hudson, who came in seventh during the hit singing competition's third season, took to Instagram late in the day on Wednesday, March 6, to mourn her former mentor.

"Heartbroken over the passing of Debra Byrd, the vocal coach on American Idol," she wrote alongside a photo and video clip of the EGOT-winner working with the coach on the show. "She encouraged and supported us from the very beginning !" she continued. "I am so grateful for everything she taught us."

"She will be dearly missed, but her legacy lives on through the music of countless artists she influenced during her lifetime," she concluded. "Rest in peace, Debra."

Byrd, after serving as vocal coach for 10 seasons, went on to work on Canadian Idol, Military Idol, The Voice, Majors and Minors, and more, passed away in Los Angeles on Tuesday, March 5, as reported by Deadline. No cause of death was provided at the time.

In addition to Hudson, she worked closely with contestants like Kelly Clarkson, Clay Aiken and Fantasia, as well as legends like Bob Dylan and Barry Manilow, whom she provided backup vocals for as part of the group Ladyflash.

Manilow called it "one of the saddest days of [his] life" in a tribute posted on Instagram alongside a photo of the two of them performing together. "I just can’t wrap around the fact that Debra Byrd is no longer with me. She was one of the most wonderful friends I’ve ever had."

Next: Jennifer Hudson Shares Original ‘American Idol’ Audition in Celebration of Its 20th Anniversary