In a heartrending turn of events, Hoda Kotb, the beloved former co-anchor of NBC’s Today Show, has stepped up in a profound way to support her longtime colleague and friend, Sheinelle Jones, as Jones navigates a devastating family tragedy. Kotb, who recently left her high-profile role on Today to prioritize her daughters, Haley Joy and Hope Catherine, has found her decision validated in the wake of heartbreaking news from Jones’ family. Sources close to the Today family reveal that Jones’ husband, Uche Ojeh, has passed away, leaving Jones and their three children—Kayin, Clara, and Uche Jr.—reeling from an unimaginable loss. In response, Kotb, alongside her daughters, has made a bold and deeply personal decision to help Jones and her children cope, showcasing the unbreakable bond forged over years of shared laughter, tears, and morning show magic.

A Decision Rooted in Love

Hoda Kotb’s departure from Today on January 10, 2025, sent shockwaves through the television world. After 17 years as a fixture of morning television, Kotb announced she was stepping back to focus on her family, particularly her daughters, Haley Joy, 8, and Hope Catherine, 6, whom she adopted later in life. “Turning 60 was a wake-up call,” Kotb shared on air, her voice cracking with emotion. “I want to be there for my girls, to make memories that last.” Her decision was met with an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues alike, but no one could have predicted how soon it would prove to be a blessing in disguise.

Just weeks after her final broadcast, news broke that Sheinelle Jones, Kotb’s co-host on Today’s third hour, was facing a personal tragedy. According to insiders, Uche Ojeh, Jones’ husband of over a decade, passed away unexpectedly, leaving the vibrant journalist and her three children grappling with grief. The loss has shaken the Today family to its core, with colleagues describing Jones as “devastated but trying to stay strong for her kids.” For Kotb, the news hit especially hard. “Hoda and Sheinelle have always been like sisters,” a source close to the show revealed. “They’ve shared everything—triumphs, struggles, and now this unbearable pain. Hoda knew she had to do something.”

Kotb’s choice to leave Today was driven by her desire to put family first, and now, that same instinct is guiding her to extend her love and support to Jones’ family. “Hoda feels like this is exactly why she stepped away,” the source continued. “She’s not tied to a studio anymore. She’s free to be there for the people she loves, and right now, that’s Sheinelle and her kids.”

A Bold Plan to Heal

In the face of such profound loss, Kotb and her daughters have devised a heartfelt plan to help Jones and her children navigate their grief. Sources say Kotb, inspired by her own journey as a mother, is creating a “safe haven” for Jones’ family, starting with a week-long retreat to her Long Island home. “Hoda’s house is a place of warmth and love,” the insider shared. “She’s invited Sheinelle and her kids to stay with her, Haley, and Hope, to give them a break from the spotlight and a chance to just be together.”

The retreat is more than just a getaway—it’s a carefully thought-out gesture designed to bring comfort and connection. Kotb, known for her emotional intelligence, has enlisted her daughters to play a key role. “Haley and Hope adore Sheinelle’s kids,” the source explained. “Hoda’s girls are planning little activities—like baking cookies, making friendship bracelets, and watching movies—to keep the kids distracted and give them moments of joy.” Kotb herself is focusing on Jones, offering a listening ear and shared tears. “Hoda knows nothing can take away Sheinelle’s pain, but she’s determined to be a rock for her,” the insider added. “They’ll talk, cry, laugh, and just sit in silence if that’s what Sheinelle needs.”

But Kotb’s support doesn’t stop there. Drawing on her upcoming wellness project, Making Space, Kotb is reportedly working with grief counselors to create a tailored support plan for Jones’ children. “Hoda’s been researching ways to help kids process loss,” the source revealed. “She’s connecting Sheinelle with experts who can guide the kids through their feelings in age-appropriate ways.” Kotb is also said to be gifting Jones’ children journals inspired by her own Making Space podcast, encouraging them to write down their thoughts and memories of their father. “It’s Hoda’s way of helping them hold onto Uche’s love,” the insider said.

A Bond Forged in the Studio

The friendship between Kotb and Jones has long been a highlight of Today. From their infectious laughter during lighthearted segments to their heartfelt discussions about motherhood, the two have shared a chemistry that resonates with viewers. “Hoda and Sheinelle have this incredible ability to lift each other up,” said a Today producer. “They’ve been through so much together—Hoda’s adoption journey, Sheinelle’s marathon running, and all the chaos of live TV. This tragedy has only deepened their bond.”

Kotb’s decision to step away from Today was bittersweet, but her recent appearances—like her surprise visit to the Today set on March 14, 2025, and her planned reunion with Jenna Bush Hager on May 28, 2025—show she remains deeply connected to the Today family. Her support for Jones is a testament to that connection. “Hoda’s not just a colleague; she’s family,” the producer added. “She’s showing Sheinelle that she’s not alone in this.”

A Community Rallies

The Today team has also rallied around Jones. Savannah Guthrie, Craig Melvin, and Al Roker have reportedly been in constant contact, offering their own support. “The whole Today crew is heartbroken,” the producer shared. “They’re planning a private memorial segment to honor Uche, but they’re giving Sheinelle space to decide when and how she wants to share her story publicly.” Jenna Bush Hager, who shares a close bond with both Kotb and Jones, is said to be planning a special episode of Today with Jenna & Friends dedicated to resilience and healing, inspired by Jones’ strength.

Fans have also taken to social media to express their condolences. A post on X from @TVInsider read, “Our hearts are with Sheinelle Jones and her family during this difficult time. The Today family is stronger than ever, and Hoda’s stepping up in a big way.” Another user, @MorningShowFan, wrote, “Hoda Kotb is a class act. Leaving TV to focus on family and now helping Sheinelle through this? She’s an inspiration.”

A New Chapter for Kotb

Kotb’s decision to leave Today was about more than just stepping back—it was about redefining her purpose. Her new deal with NBC, described as a “Snoop Dogg-style role,” allows her to appear at special events like the Olympics while focusing on her wellness ventures. “Hoda’s always been about spreading light,” the source said. “Whether it’s through her podcast, her app, or just being there for a friend, she’s found her calling.”

For now, Kotb’s focus is on Jones and her children. “Hoda believes in the power of showing up,” the insider said. “She’s not trying to fix Sheinelle’s pain—she knows she can’t. But she’s there, with open arms and a full heart, ready to walk this road with her.”

As Kotb and her daughters open their home and hearts to Jones’ family, the world is watching a story of compassion unfold. In a time of grief, Hoda Kotb is proving that love, friendship, and family can light even the darkest paths.