Who was Sheinelle Jones’ husband? All About Uche Ojeh

2025 has been an emotionally intense year for Sheinelle Jones. After losing her husband, Uche Ojeh, to brain cancer in May, she temporarily stepped away from Today to focus on her family. She returned within four months with renewed determination, describing her life during this period as a “beautiful nightmare.” Now, she is ending the year on a high note as she prepares to become the permanent co-host of the show’s fourth hour.

On the December 9, 2025, episode of Today with Jenna & Friends, Jones was surprised by Hager with the announcement that she would officially take on the role starting January 12, 2026. This milestone is deeply meaningful for Jones and her children, marking a moment of joy after a year filled with loss.

“I told my kids first. Kay was in the school library — he sent me a selfie that was the cutest thing — and the twins, I went and got wine, and I gave them water, and I said, ‘Guys, we have to take a selfie,’ and they were so happy for me. There was so much joy in our house, and we needed that joy,” Jones shared.

Honoring Uche Ojeh’s Memory

Jones believes her late husband played a role in this achievement. She revealed a personal ritual before stepping on set that morning: “When I came back from leave, I talked about fighting for my joy. This is what it looks like. It feels divine. It feels like Uche’s up there with God. He’s Mr. Competitive. He’s like, ‘Alright, let’s make this happen for Sheinelle.’ I put on his shirt this morning, and I said a little prayer.”

A Love Story Spanning Two Decades

Sheinelle and Uche’s relationship began in the 1990s, when she was a college freshman and he a visiting high school senior. A playful introduction — with Jones pretending to be a campus tour guide — sparked a bond that would last nearly two decades. They dated for eight years, often long-distance, before Uche proposed at the very spot where they first met. The couple married in 2007 and built a family of five by 2012.

Ojeh, a Nigerian-born tech consultant and managing partner at UAO Consulting, was known for his ambition, positivity, and devotion to his family. In October 2023, months before his illness became public, he completed a triathlon with his family, celebrating a bucket-list accomplishment that reflected his determination.

Facing a Tragic Diagnosis

In late 2023, Uche was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive glioblastoma. Sheinelle remained by his side while continuing her work, attending chemotherapy sessions immediately after her morning shifts. As his condition worsened, she took a leave of absence in December 2024 to be fully present for him and their children. Uche passed away in May 2025 at the age of 45. The Today show family publicly shared tributes celebrating his warmth, faith, and devotion as a husband and father.

Returning to the Spotlight

In September 2025, Jones returned to Today, openly discussing grief and the effort it takes to find joy again. “If you see me here, that means you can do it too. And we’re all gonna fight for our joy. If you see me laughing, and when you see me having a good time with my sister-friend here. That means you can get up and conquer your day too,” she told her colleagues.

As she steps into her new role with Bush Hager, this message takes on even greater significance. The newly titled Today with Jenna & Sheinelle, debuting January 12, 2026, offers her a daily platform to embrace and share joy while honoring the memory of Uche, her steadfast supporter.