Huge Loss: ‘Today’ Co-Host Sheinelle Jones’ Husband Uche Ojeh Dies at 45
A family man. A devoted father. A love that began in college and inspired millions.
Uche Ojeh, Husband of Sheinelle Jones, Passes Away After Battle With Brain Cancer
In heartbreaking news shared on Friday, May 23, the Today Show announced that Uche Ojeh, beloved husband of co-host Sheinelle Jones, has passed away at the age of 45 following a difficult battle with glioblastoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.
The announcement was made live on-air by Sheinelle’s fellow co-hosts Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, Al Roker, Carson Daly, Dylan Dreyer, and Jenna Bush Hager, who spoke with emotion and love for a man they all cherished.
An On-Air Tribute Full of Tears and Love
“There are no words for the pain that we feel for Sheinelle and their three young children,” said Savannah Guthrie. “Uche was an incredible person. We all loved him.”
Craig Melvin, who was especially close to Ojeh, added:
“He was that dad on the sideline at every soccer game. At every recital, every concert. He loved those kids more than anything in the world.”
A Beautiful Life, A Strong Love
Uche Ojeh and Sheinelle Jones shared 18 years of marriage. Together, they raised three children: Kayin, 15, and 12-year-old fraternal twins, Clara and Uche Jr. Their story began at Northwestern University, where Sheinelle—then a freshman—gave Ojeh, a visiting high school senior, a campus tour.
What started as a simple walk on campus grew into a love that spanned decades.
They married on September 2, 2007, in Sheinelle’s hometown of Philadelphia. After years of long-distance dating, Ojeh proposed in the very place they first met — in the middle of a rainstorm at Northwestern.
A Brilliant Career and a Devoted Soul
Born on February 4, 1980, Uche Ojeh graduated from Northwestern with a bachelor’s in computer science and economics in 2001. He worked as a managing partner at UAO Consulting and previously held roles at IBM and Accenture.
He was a man of faith, family, and focus — an active church choir singer, avid soccer player, and a proud advocate for his Nigerian heritage, which he lovingly shared with his children.
Sheinelle’s Quiet Absence, and Now Her Public Grief
Jones, 47, has been absent from Today since mid-December, later telling fans on Instagram she was taking time for a “family health matter.” She never shared specific details, but fans and colleagues stood by her side with unwavering support.
On May 23, she broke her silence by sharing the Today tribute clip on Instagram, writing:
“Thank you, for all of your love and support. ❤️”
A Life Celebrated On Air
The Today show also aired a beautifully crafted video package honoring Ojeh’s life. In it, Savannah Guthrie described him as:
“Her perfect match. A man whose joyful spirit and quiet strength complemented Sheinelle in every way.”
“Family, friends, and his deep and abiding faith were always his true north. Today, with heavy hearts, we celebrate his life — a devoted husband, a loving father, and a man whose generosity of spirit touched all who knew him.”
In Her Own Words
Sheinelle once said during a holiday special in 2019:
“There may be a pile of laundry in the corner, but I’m happy I didn’t miss the moment in front of me. My kids are happy, and that’s what’s most important.”
In a 2023 birthday tribute to her husband, she reflected on their journey:
“Happy birthday, Uche. To think it all started right here at Northwestern… 25 years ago. Marriage, three kids, New York City, 10,000 games and lessons later — we’re just getting started.”
