Uchechukwuka Adenola Ojeh, better known to the world as Uche Ojeh, died last month at the age of 45. He battled passionately and courageously against a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. Uche was the dedicated husband of Sheinelle Jones, cohost of NBC’s “Today,” and a proud father to their three children. His untimely death continues to have a profound impact on family, friends, and community. They are in deep mourning for the loss of a dear and irreplaceable friend, mentor, and leader.
Uche grew up in a home that embraced their Nigerian culture. He did this and more, instilling a deep pride in their cultural heritage with his children. He was dedicated to making sure that his history was shared with them, making them rich with the knowledge of their ancestry. Uche wholeheartedly connected to his ancestry. He was a passionate and engaged father, who really loved his family.
Uche was more than a family man. He was an overachiever in his profession. He was managing partner of UAO Consulting, where his leadership and dedication to his profession led to profound changes in planning practices. On the field, he was an ardent soccer player. His enthusiasm was a window into his radiant personality and passion for sports. He became very involved in his children’s lives, going to every soccer game, concert, and recital.
Friends and colleagues all attest to Uche’s senses of humor and warmth. Personality wise, he was just as well known to be wickedly funny. With his unexpected improvisation, he found a way to make people laugh and surprise them like no one else. In this humility was reflected his brilliance – he was never loutish or ostentatious about his achievements or skill.
Sheinelle, Uche, and Sheinelle Sheinelle Jones and Uche first crossed paths as college students at Northwestern University in the late ’90s. Their connection deepened and they were married in 2007 in Philadelphia. Together, they confronted the trials of life hand-in-hand, side by side, with love, humor, humility, and grace. In her emotional message to the community, Sheinelle expressed just how thankful she truly was. She thanked the amazing outpouring of support they’ve received since this horrible time.
“Thank you for all of your love and support.” – Sheinelle Jones
Uche’s untimely death leaves a large hole in the lives of all those who were graced to have known him. His best friend, Al Roker, shared how Uche really had the unique ability to make you smile without making you feel less than. He would say things that just sort of shocked you, but wasn’t cocky or nothing. He was a great, great, humble man,” said Roker.
Guthrie shared her condolences for Sheinelle and their children, saying, “There are no words for the pain that we feel for Sheinelle and their three young children.” She focused on the support that the “Today” show family is showing them during this challenging time.
“Uche was an incredible person. We all loved him… We just want to say, Sheinelle, Kayin, Uche, and Clara, and the Ojeh family: We are with you. We love you. You are our family, and we’re just sending all of our love to you right now.” – Guthrie
Jenna Bush Hager went on to recognize the emotional storm on the heels of Uche’s passing, lauding Sheinelle for being able to discover resilience in the face of grief. What he was able to do—and this is really hard to do—was find the grace in the grief.” — Hager
