Today Show co-host Sheinelle Jones has suffered a tragic loss just days before she is set to start her new gig. Fans already know that she lost her husband, Uche Ojeh, in 2025, which caused her to leave her post for quite some time. So, what has happened this time around, and will it keep her off television once again? Keep reading for more details.
Sheinelle Jones Suffers Tragic Loss
Today Show fans were very confused when Sheinelle Jones was MIA from her co-hosting spot. They knew she had personal struggles, which were causing her to be gone. Yet, they wondered if she would ever return. As it turned out, her longtime husband, Uche Ojeh, was battling glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer. Due to it being so aggressive, she was with him and their children as they shared three. Sadly, he passed away in 2025, and that broke her heart. Fortunately, she was able to return at the end of the year and ended up getting a gig that many believed was perfect for her.
She was named the new co-host of Jenna & Friends alongside Jenna Bush Hager. This was a spot previously occupied by Hoda Kotb. However, a week before Sheinelle was set to take her seat next to Jenna, tragedy struck once again. On Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, the beloved anchor shared that her grandma passed away on New Year’s Eve. ‘Grandmama’ Josephine Vonceal Pace Brown was just ninety-six years young when she died, as Sheinelle took to social media to pay tribute with a sweet slideshow.
Sheinelle Jones noted that this was her best friend from the beginning, and that bond was everlasting. The Today Show host shared her grandma’s beauty via photos, and it was clear she will be sorely missed. As of now, it does not appear Sheinelle will delay her first day as Jenna’s co-host. Her ‘grandmama’ was one of her biggest supporters in the industry and always believed in her dreams. Therefore, she likely wants to honor her by getting back to work.
The Love Flows In
Fans and followers sent in love and condolences to The Today Show anchor. 2025 was a very hard year for Philadelphia, Pennsylvania native, Sheinelle Jones and her family. It should have ended on a high note, but sadly, that was not possible. Regardless, supporters wanted her to know they were there for her in all ways:
- Deepest condolences to you and your family.🙏🏻
- Aww…just saw the video of you all during the farewell tribute to you yesterday morning. So sorry for your loss. Rest well dear Diamond Soror…🩷💚
- I’m so so sorry! There is nothing like a grandmother’s love. ❤️
Hopefully, she will feel her grandmother’s love when she sits down next to Jenna Bush Hager on January 12th. Are you looking forward to her as the new co-host, and do you think she is the perfect fit? Let us know, and we are sending love to Sheinelle during this heartbreaking time.
Amanda has been a professional freelance writer for over a decade, holding both a BA and an MA. Her passions include animals, iced coffee, gnomes, summer, music, and ‘Vanderpump Rules’.
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