Sheinelle Jones joined Jenna Bush Hager as co-hosts of “Today With Jenna & Sheinelle” just months after her husband, Uche Ojeh, lost his battle with cancer.
Today, the beloved host celebrated her first birthday since her husband’s death.
Sheinelle Jones’ Emotional Birthday
Jones turned 48 on Sunday, April 19, just 11 months after losing her husband. The “Today” host opened up about the emotions of her special day without her beloved husband.
“Hi everyone. ❤️ As I literally sit here – in tears – on an airplane headed home, I think it’s the perfect moment to check in with you,” Jones began in her Instagram birthday post. “Today is my 48th birthday, and to be honest- I can’t stop crying. Thankful tears, painful tears because it’s my first without Uche, and tears full of gratitude reflecting on the last 7 days.”
She continued, “I have never felt so much love in my life. Thank you for the prayers and support over the last year. I don’t have the words to express how it feels to have SOLD OUT crowds in every city … and what it feels like to take these group photos with your smiling faces. 🥹 Uche loved The Beatles; as I mark the beginning of ’48’ – I do .. feel the sun. Thank you so so much. 🎂”
Sheinelle’s post was accompanied by a series of photos from her recent book tour to promote her parenting book, “Through Mom’s Eyes.”
Friends of the host shared their love in the comments section, including ABC journalist Deborah Roberts.
“We love you and celebrate you every step of the way! 💗💗” she wrote.
The newest member of the “Today” family was celebrated by her work family earlier this week and became emotional while discussing her difficult year.
“Okay, I’m not gonna get all emotional, but 47 was a lot,” Jones admitted. “And now I’m turning 48.”
She continued, “And when I turned 47, it was a tough day on my 47th birthday and I just couldn’t see the light at the end of the tunnel. So for 48 to be so wonderful and to be here with you and you guys, just lets you know that if you’re in something, just know that there is light.”
Sheinelle Jones’ Husband’s Passing
Ojeh passed away in May 2025 after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer known as glioblastoma.
The college sweethearts shared three children together: son Kayin and fraternal twins Clara and Uche Jr.
During his brave battle, Jones stepped away from her hosting duties to care for her husband and children.
“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 said after joining as Bush-Hager’s permanent co-host in December 2025.
