Uche Ojeh, who was married to TODAY co-host Sheinelle Jones for 17 years, sadly passed away at the age of 45 after battling glioblastoma, a type of aggressive brain cancer. The news was shared by Savannah Guthrie on the show, expressing deep sorrow for Sheinelle and their three children. Uche was described as an amazing person who was loved by all, highlighting his importance in Sheinelle’s life.
Sheinelle and Uche’s love story started at Northwestern University in the late 1990s when Sheinelle, just a freshman at 18, offered to give Uche, a visiting high-school senior, a tour of the campus near Chicago. After eight years together, Uche proposed to Sheinelle on the same campus where their love story began. They tied the knot in September 2007 in Philadelphia, Sheinelle’s hometown, and later welcomed their three children – Kayin, Uche, and Clara.
Uche was known for his dedication to family, friends, and faith, as well as his Nigerian heritage which he passed on to his children. He enjoyed playing soccer and singing in the church choir. Throughout their relationship, Sheinelle and Uche supported each other in their endeavors, with Uche cheering Sheinelle on as she completed the New York City Marathon, and Sheinelle returning the favor when Uche successfully finished a triathlon. The TODAY family pays tribute to Uche, recognizing him as a devoted husband, loving father, and a man with a bright spirit that touched everyone around him.
