Sheinelle Jones Shares a Heartfelt Moment with a Sign from Her Late Husband During Her PEOPLE Cover Shoot

NEED TO KNOW

• Today‘s Sheinelle Jones discusses the death of her husband, Uche Ojeh, in this week’s cover story.
• She reveals that while she never asked him for signs, she received one during her cover interview.
• “They say things come to you in electricity,” Jones remarks about a moment in her interview that left everyone in awe.

Sheinelle Jones, a prominent figure on Today, opened up this week about her life following the death of her husband, Uche Ojeh, who passed away at 45 from glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer, in May. The couple shared 17 years of marriage and three children: son Kayin, 16, and twins Clara and Uche Jr., 13.

Reflecting on their time together, Jones, 47, shared that the couple never discussed end-of-life matters. “I think people have these visions of heartfelt conversations, but when someone’s 45 and playing on two soccer teams, you’re not talking about the end; you’re fighting beside them,” she said.

Sheinelle Jones and her family.

Courtesy Sheinelle Jones

As she reminisced about their bond during her interview, Jones experienced a moment she perceives as a sign from her late husband. When asked what she thinks he might say to her on January 12, her first official day cohosting Today with Jenna & Sheinelle, a smile lit up her face.

“I can see his face,” Jones recalled. “He was kind of swaggy and quiet, a little cocky, which I found attractive. He was always my silent coach when I’d do interviews, especially on politics. I could picture his hug, probably just like in that blue cap picture from when he greeted me after the New York City Marathon — he was so proud.”

Uche Ojeh hugs his wife Sheinelle Jones after she finished the New York City Marathon.

Courtesy Sheinelle Jones

In a poignant turn of events, just seconds after sharing this memory, every light on set went out. “They say things come to you in electricity,” Jones said, reflecting on the moment. “I know it’s him.”

Though Uche passed away in May, Jones continues to feel his presence in various forms, from yellow butterflies to sunflowers and even through a tie she gave to their son for a recent event. “And I know that he knows,” she stated, referring to her new role alongside Jenna Bush Hager. “He was rooting for me all along. I owe it to him to keep going.”

Sheinelle Jones photographed for PEOPLE.

Brian Doben

Jones described her new adventure as her first “win” without Uche physically by her side, after taking a year-long break from Today to care for her family. “Every day is like swimming through mud,” she said, acknowledging the effort it takes to balance grief and joy. “I’m fighting for my joy.”

Her role has become a cornerstone of that joy. “Jenna and I look at each other and we’re safe,” Jones said. “If I fall, she’s going to pick me up and vice versa. If I told you the depth of my groans and tears just months ago to one of the best days of my life today, you couldn’t even write it.”

Reflecting on her resilience, Jones noted that continuous support is vital, stating, “joy and heartbreak can be held at the same time, and we need to find moments of joy and celebration even in darkness.” As the set lights flicker to life again, Jones smiles, confident that her husband is watching. “If there is a way to let a loved one know that you’re okay after you pass,” she said, “he’s going to figure it out.”

For more insights into Sheinelle Jones’ journey, the latest issue of PEOPLE is available on stands Friday.