Uche Ojeh, Husband of 'Today' Co-Host Sheinelle Jones, passes away at 45

Sheinelle Jones is a "Today" show co-host whose husband, Uche Ojeh, died at the age of 45 after battling glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer. The announcement was made on the morning telecast as Jones' colleagues expressed their grief and offered heartfelt condolences. Since December of 2024, Jones had not featured on the show, citing a family health situation. Jones' co-hosts, Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin, gave emotional tributes and acknowledged Ojeh's kindness, gentleness, and love for his family. Jones and Ojeh have three children: Kayin, who is 15; and Uche and Clara, who are 12-year-old twins.

Jones and Ojeh met in the late 1990s at Northwestern University, where they both attended school. During the eight years of long-distance dating they experienced, Ojeh proposed to Jones romantically at their alma mater. This once long-distance couple married in 2007 and expressed to each other that a family-centered, shared-values lifestyle was important to both of them. Throughout their marriage, Jones has mentioned a strong emphasis on honoring their cultures, specifically Ojeh's Nigerian culture. Their love story was characterized by respect for one another, being deeply connected, and a shared commitment to developing their children with cultural significance.

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Uche Ojeh remembered as loving Husband and Father by Sheinelle Jones

During Ojeh's illness, he served as a wonderful father and husband. He was described as a modest, quiet individual who possessed a strong sense of support for his family and a calm demeanor, as well as a warmth-filled presence. Individually, his colleagues explained that Ojeh could brighten a room; he was someone who carried light and warmth wherever he went, with a willingness to embrace life, alongside Jones in every respect. He was an active husband and father, attending all of his children's activities, from soccer games to piano recitals rooting loudly and proudly for them, as he also individually fostered their talent with private lessons and personal attention.

Jones did not return to the "Today" show until January, and the first time she addressed the absence was through a social media post where she mentioned taking time to deal with a family health matter. Jones offered a heartfelt thank you to her colleagues and viewers who supported her through this process. After Ojeh passed away, Jones reflected on the love and encouragement she received, and shared a post on Instagram of the tribute segment, to inform the community to join her in thanking everyone for their kindness. During this tragic time, Jones and her family have been grateful for the support they have received.

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‘Today’ Show hosts support Sheinelle Jones through loss of Husband Uche Ojeh

The "Today" show family continues to provide warmth and support to Jones, giving their condolences and sharing memories of Ojeh. All the co-hosts, especially Al Roker and Dylan Dreyer, have expressed that they continue to check in with Jones daily and how close their team is. Co-hosts have described Ojeh was a humble gregarious man with a wicked sense of humor. This collective grieving represents the bond they have all built and their willingness to support one another. When Jones feels ready to return, she will have the full support of her colleagues.

Jones is living the present for her kids and the life she created with Ojeh. Her focus and determination are evident in her statements to the public and the memories she shares. Ojeh's and Jones' love story is a legacy that motivates many, representing the idea of strength in partnership and the impact of living a good life. Jones moves through grief with grace, gratitude, and support by her community. She exemplifies love, husband and wife, and the human spirit.