While Gifford is one of the most recognizable faces in show business, what many people don’t know is that she was born Jewish, and when she was 12 years old became a “born again” Christian. Gifford then attended Oral Roberts University and says that Billy Graham is to thank for it. “My entire family came to faith through eternity through Billy Graham.” Her faith in God helped her get through her first year without her husband, NFL legend and broadcaster Frank Gifford who died of natural causes in 2015. The year she lost her husband, she said “I’ve gotten through the past year the way I’ve gotten through every day of my life; faithfully trusting God to do what God does, which is to show up, redeem and restore.” Her faith continues to be a central part of her life and having a deep relationship with Jesus Christ is important. She has encouraged fans to consider the power of God and prayer.