Sheinelle Jones Mourns Sudden Death of Husband Uche Ojeh as ‘Today’ Show Family Rallies Around Her

 May 23, 2025

New York, NY — An outpouring of love, compassion, and unwavering support is enveloping NBC’s Sheinelle Jones after the devastating loss of her husband, Uche Ojeh, whose unexpected death this week has left the Today show community heartbroken.

Jones, a cherished co-host of Today’s third hour and longtime journalist known for her radiant spirit and grace, is now facing profound personal grief. Her husband, Uche Ojeh, a managing partner at a Philadelphia-based consulting firm and father of their three children, passed away suddenly earlier this week. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

In a statement released by NBC News, the network confirmed Jones will be stepping away from the anchor desk to be with her family.

“Sheinelle is deeply loved by all of us at Today. Right now, our priority is surrounding her with support and honoring her privacy as she navigates this unimaginable loss,” the network said. “Uche was a devoted husband and father, and this is a profound loss for everyone who knew him.”

Ojeh and Jones were married in 2007 after meeting during their college years at Northwestern University. Their bond was well-known and admired among colleagues and fans alike — a modern love story rooted in shared ambition, mutual respect, and family devotion. Together, they raised three children — Kayin, Clara, and Uche Jr. — with Sheinelle often speaking fondly of her husband’s steadfast support behind the scenes of her high-profile media career.

On Thursday morning’s broadcast, an emotional Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb opened the show with a heartfelt tribute to their friend and co-anchor.

“We are grieving with our sister,” Guthrie said, her voice breaking. “Sheinelle is a light in all our lives — and today, we’re holding that light for her.”

Kotb added, “Uche’s passing is a staggering loss. He was the quiet force behind Sheinelle’s brilliance — an extraordinary man, and above all, an incredible father.”

Behind the cameras, producers, crew, and NBC staff have mobilized swiftly to assist the Jones-Ojeh family. Quiet efforts are underway to manage childcare logistics, deliver meals, and coordinate grief counseling resources. Colleagues have described the mood inside NBC’s Rockefeller Plaza headquarters as somber yet united in care and compassion.

“Sheinelle isn’t just a coworker,” said an NBC executive who asked not to be named. “She’s family. And when family hurts, we hurt. But we also hold each other tighter.”

On social media, thousands of fans and public figures have voiced support, sharing messages of solidarity using the hashtag #LoveForSheinelle. Among those posting tributes were former First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, and journalist Gayle King — all praising Jones for her resilience and empathy throughout her career, now matched by the nation’s support in her moment of sorrow.

“There are no words,” King wrote. “Just love. Endless love for Sheinelle and her children.”

The Today show will continue to honor Ojeh’s life and legacy in the coming days, including a special on-air remembrance featuring personal stories from Jones’ closest friends and colleagues.

Meanwhile, friends of the family are quietly planning a private memorial in New York, expected to draw both close relatives and media industry peers. The family has requested that the service remain closed to the public, but have encouraged donations in Uche Ojeh’s memory to causes supporting children’s education and mental health — issues close to both his and Sheinelle’s hearts.

Though the grief is raw, those who know Sheinelle Jones best say her strength lies in community — in the very village now rallying around her.

“Sheinelle is the heart of this team,” said Al Roker. “She has lifted so many of us over the years. Now, it’s our turn to carry her through.”

As one of America’s most trusted voices in morning television takes time to grieve privately, her audience — and her Today show family — will remain steadfast, ready to welcome her back with open arms when she is ready.

IN MEMORIAM: Uche Ojeh (1978–2025)
A loving husband, father, and friend. A quiet giant. Forever remembered.

To share condolences or support the family, please visit the memorial portal provided by NBC at NBCMemorialSupport.com.