Gayle Benson, the Richest Female Billionaire in Louisiana: From Interior Designer to Sports Mogul

With a net worth estimated at $6,1 billion, Gayle Benson is rightfully the wealthiest woman in Louisiana. Gayle Benson, widow of the late Tom Benson, former owner of the NFL’s New Orleans Saints and the NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans, has assumed ownership of both teams following her husband’s passing in March 2018. Despite a contentious legal battle with Tom’s daughter and grandchildren over family assets, Gayle emerged as the sole proprietor of the sports empire.

The dispute, stemming from claims of Tom’s alleged mental incompetence, was resolved in early 2017 through a confidential settlement. Gayle, who married Tom in October 2004, is his third wife. Prior to her foray into sports ownership, Gayle pursued a successful career as an interior designer, starting in the 1970s. In 2014, she founded GMB Racing, a thoroughbred horse racing company, further diversifying her business interests.

Hailing from New Orleans, Gayle’s roots in the city run deep, having grown up in Old Algiers. Before her ventures in interior design and sports ownership, she worked in jewelry sales real estate development, and spent three decades honing her skills in interior design.

Assuming control of the Saints, which Tom owned since 1985, and the Pelicans, acquired in 2012, Gayle Benson continues to shape the legacy of these iconic sports franchises. Her journey from interior designer to sports mogul exemplifies resilience, determination, and a steadfast commitment to success.

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