Irish Grinstead, member of R&B girl group 702, has died aged 43 | Albiseyler

Irish Grinstead, best known as one-third of ’90s R&B girl group 702, has died. She was 43.

Grinstead, who formed 702 with singers Kameelah Williams and LeMisha Grinstead, died Saturday, 702 representative Cory Taylor confirmed to USA TODAY on Sunday. The cause of death was not given.

Taylor shared a statement from Grinstead’s bandmate and sister LeMisha, which was posted on Instagram.

“It is with great sadness that I have to inform you that my beautiful sister and friend passed away tonight,” LeMisha said in a statement. “She has had a long battle and is finally at peace. That girl was as bright as the stars!”

LeMisha added, “She was not only beautiful on the outside, but on the inside as well. Sharing the stage with her was a joy I will cherish for the rest of my life!”

Grinstead had struggled with her health in the months before her death. In December 2022, 702 shared on Instagram that Grinstead was taking “medical leave due to serious health problems.“The nature of Grinstead’s health problems was not disclosed in the post.

“We hope for a healthy and speedy recovery in the coming months,” the group wrote at the time. “We ask that you respect our privacy during this very difficult time and continue to pray for us as Meelah and Misha continue to navigate and represent 702 for the upcoming 2023 performance.”

Grinstead became a household name in music thanks to her membership in 702, whose name is inspired by the area code of the members’ hometown of Las Vegas. The group debuted in 1996 with the release of an album a gold-certified album “No Doubt,” which featured the hit single and Missy Elliott collaboration “Steelo.”