What is Gayle Benson's Net Worth?
Gayle Benson is an influential American businesswoman and sports franchise owner with an estimated net worth of $2.8 billion. Born in January 1947 in New Orleans, Louisiana, Gayle is best known for her ownership of not one, but two significant sports franchises: the NFL's New Orleans Saints and the NBA's New Orleans Pelicans. This ownership came to her in 2018 following the death of her husband, Tom Benson, a renowned billionaire and the former owner of both teams. Her acquisition of these teams marked a historic moment, making her the first woman to become a majority shareholder of the voting stock in both an NBA and an NFL franchise.
Gayle's entrepreneurial journey began long before her involvement in the sports world. She ran a successful interior decorating business known as Gayle Bird Interiors Ltd. Her relationship with Tom Benson started when she approached him for a church donation. Their connection grew stronger over the years, leading to a marriage that saw them heavily involved in various business ventures and philanthropic activities. In 2017, Gayle and Tom Benson acquired a majority share of the Dixie Brewing Co., showcasing their keen interest in diverse business opportunities.
Philanthropy has always been a core focus for Gayle. Together with Tom, she donated millions of dollars to various charitable organizations, emphasizing their commitment to community enrichment and support. Despite facing personal tragedies, including the loss of two of her three children, Gayle Benson continues to be a formidable presence in both the business and sports industries.
