Nancy Guthrie is an American Bible teacher, author, and beloved mother who came into the national spotlight in early 2026 after her sudden and unexplained disappearance from her home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona. At 84 years old, Nancy’s life has been grounded in deep faith, community involvement, and a passion for spiritual teaching that has touched many people across the United States and beyond. She is perhaps best known in the public eye today as the mother of NBC “Today” show co‑anchor Savannah Guthrie, but her own story stretches far beyond her well‑known daughter’s career. Before the events of February 2026, Nancy balanced roles as a wife, mother of three, respected Bible teacher, and community member—rooted in her faith, family life, and dedication to helping others understand Scripture. However, beginning on January 31, 2026, when Nancy was last seen at home, her disappearance rapidly evolved into a major FBI investigation that has captured national attention, drawn widespread concern for her safety, and raised urgent questions about what happened to her.
A Life of Faith, Teaching, and Ministry
Before Nancy Guthrie became a subject of headlines, she cultivated a life centered on faith and biblical teaching. She holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MATS) from Reformed Theological Seminary, and her work has focused on helping others see the coherence of Scripture and the presence of Christ throughout the biblical narrative. Nancy teaches at Cornerstone Presbyterian Church in Franklin, Tennessee, leads highly regarded Biblical Theology Workshops for Women across the United States and internationally, and hosts the “Help Me Teach the Bible” podcast with The Gospel Coalition. Her writings include several well‑received books such as Even Better Than Eden and Holding On to Hope, which Nancy Guthrie explore themes of suffering, redemption, and God’s presence in the midst of life’s challenges. Alongside her husband, David, she also founded Respite Retreats, a ministry offering support to couples who have lost a child, demonstrating how her own personal experiences have informed her compassion and ministry focus.
The Circumstances of Her Disappearance
The course of Nancy’s life changed abruptly when she was last seen at her Arizona home on the evening of January 31, 2026, and failed to appear for a scheduled church event the next day. Concerned friends reported her absence, prompting family members to check on her well‑being and subsequently contact law enforcement when they found no sign of her. Evidence collected at the residence, including personal belongings left untouched and DNA‑confirmed blood at the scene, led authorities to treat the situation as a potential abduction. The Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI launched a swift and expansive investigation, concluding early on that Nancy was likely taken against her will. She is described by loved ones as mentally sharp, though physically limited in mobility and dependent on daily medication, heightening concern for her safety.
Investigation, Leads, and Public Appeals
Since her disappearance, law enforcement agencies have pursued numerous leads and released images related to the case in hopes of generating actionable tips. Surveillance footage recovered from a doorbell camera shows a masked individual approaching Nancy’s door around the time she vanished, carrying a distinctive black backpack, and attempting to tamper with the camera—details that have become critical in the ongoing search. The FBI has also increased the reward for information to $100,000 and issued updated descriptions of a possible suspect to the public, intensifying efforts to identify anyone involved. Family members, including Savannah Guthrie and her siblings, have made heartfelt public appeals for information and expressed hope that their mother remains alive while urging the public to come forward with credible leads. These pleas have brought wider awareness to the case throughout American media and beyond, mobilizing both national interest and local investigative resources.
Impact on Family and Community
The disappearance of Nancy Guthrie has deeply affected her family, friends, and community, galvanizing an outpouring of support, prayer, and hope for her safe return. Savannah Guthrie has described her mother as a woman of deep conviction, resilience, and wisdom—qualities she credits with influencing her own life and career. Members of her church, community supporters, and concerned individuals nationwide have joined in calls for assistance, sharing updates, and participating in search efforts. The personal dimension of Nancy’s story—an elderly woman with strong ties to family, faith, and her broader spiritual community—has brought to light how deeply an individual’s disappearance can resonate on both personal and societal levels.