Today host Sheinelle Jones spoke out on social media after the death of her husband of 17 years, Uche Ojeh, from an aggressive form of brain cancer. The announcement of Uche’s death was made on Friday, May 23.
Sheinelle, who has been absent from the talk show since December 2024, shared a clip from Today on her Instagram page, writing, “Thank you, for all of your love and support.” The Instagram post marked the first time she shared anything on the platform since addressing her absence from Today due to a private “family health matter” on January 15.
In the clip, Craig Melvin told viewers that there was some “heartbreaking news” to share with everyone.
“With profound sadness, we share this morning that Uche Ojeh, the husband of our friend and Today cohost Sheinelle Jones, has passed away after a courageous battle with an aggressive form of brain cancer called glioblastoma,” Savannah Guthrie said on Today on May 23 with tears in her eyes.
Glioblastoma is “a type of cancer that starts as a growth of cells in the brain or spinal cord. It grows quickly and can invade and destroy healthy tissue. Glioblastoma forms from cells called astrocytes that support nerve cells,” per Mayo Clinic.
“There are no words for the pain we feel for Sheinelle and their three young children,” Savannah continued. “Uche was an incredible person. We all loved him. And so we want to take a moment to tell you more about the remarkable man who was Sheinelle’s perfect partner in life.”
Uche is survived by his wife and their three children, Kayin, Uche and Clara. Photos of the family flashed on the screen as the Today hosts paid tribute to Uche.
In the video, Savannah, 53, said that “family, friends and his deep and abiding faith were always his true north.” Uche, who built a career in consulting, was described as an “enthusiastic soccer player” who “sang in his church choir” and was “devoted to his Nigerian heritage, instilling in their children a deep connection to their cultural roots.”
Sheinelle Jones and Uche Ojeh
“Two years ago when Sheinelle completed her first marathon, Uche was there at the finish line, his pride evident in his beaming smile. Just as she cheered him on when he completed a triathlon,” Savannah said. “Little moments that captured the essence of their partnership, celebrating each other’s victories big and small.”
“Uche was the kind of person who brought light, warmth and joy to every room,” she continued. “Today, with heavy hearts, we celebrate his life [as a] devoted husband, loving father and a man whose generosity and spirit touched all who knew him.”
Savannah also commented on Sheinelle’s Instagram post, writing, “Uche was an extraordinary person. Full of light and heart and faith. Sheinelle, my dearest, we love you and the kids with all of our hearts. I marvel at your strength. You are surrounded by love now and forever.”
Dylan Dreyer also commented on the post, writing, “Hoping you can find peace in the love and prayers that surround you and your incredible children. I’m so lucky to have known Uche and his spirit lives on in your family. Love you Sheinelle.”