Gayle Benson

Gayle Marie LaJaunie Bird Benson is an American billionaire, businesswoman, philanthropist, and sports franchise owner. 

  • Gayle Benson is the widow of Tom Benson (d. March 2018), former owner of the NFL New Orleans Saints and NBA New Orleans Pelicans.
  • She is now the owner of both teams, despite a multi-year dispute with Tom’s daughter and grandchildren over control of family assets.
  • Family members sued, claiming Tom was mentally incompetent; the parties ended the dispute in early 2017 with a confidential settlement.
  • Gayle worked as an interior designer starting in the 1970s and founded thoroughbred horse racing company GMB Racing in 2014.
  • Gayle and Tom married in October 2004. She was his third wife.

Gayle Benson