Who was Tafari Campbell’s wife? All about his partner Sherise

Tafari Campbell, the Obamas’ personal chef, died in a paddleboarding accident in late July 2023. Campbell, Barack Obama’s chef during his tenure as president, rose to prominence in the early 2010s by becoming the first person to brew or distill alcohol on the White House grounds. Campbell brewed beer using honey from beehives set up by Michelle Obama on the South Lawn. 

Tafari Campbell and his wife, Sherise, raised twin sons, Xavier and Savin

Tafari Campbell and his wife, Sherise, married in 1999. They raised twin sons, Savin and Xavier, who are now in their late teens. 

Campbell shared many Instagram photos of him and Sherise, including images of the pair watching Black Panther and the couple on holiday in Aruba. Following his death, Campbell’s family privatized his Instagram account. 

“My heart is broken,” Sherise wrote alongside an Instagram photo of the celebrated sous chef. “My life and our family’s life is forever changed. Please pray for me and our families as I deal with the loss of my husband.”

Sherise runs a baking and catering company dubbed Sweet Sage, which has closed temporarily. “Due to the recent tragedy in our family, at this time [we’re] not accepting any inquiries or orders,” a message on the company’s IG page reads. “We apologize for any inconvenience. The family asks for your prayers and support during this difficult time. We will let you know when we begin accepting orders again.”

A statement from the Obama family described Campbell as ‘warm, fun, and extraordinarily kind’. “Our hearts are broken that he’s gone,” the Obamas said. “Today we join everyone who knew and loved Tafari – especially his wife Sherise and their twin boys, Xavier and Savin – in grieving the loss of a truly wonderful man.”