Tom Benson
The woman who took the helm after a contested succession, owning both New Orleans' NFL and NBA teams.
Gayle Marie LaJaunie Bird Benson is an American businesswoman who became the principal owner of the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans following the death of her husband, Tom Benson, in 2018. Born on January 26, 1947, she grew up in Algiers, New Orleans, graduating from Martin Behrman High School in 1966. Before entering the world of professional sports ownership, she built a career in interior design and property renovation alongside her second husband, Thomas "T-Bird" Bird. Her entry into the role of principal owner was preceded by significant legal challenges regarding Tom Benson's will, where his mental competency was questioned before he ultimately left the voting stock shares to her.
- Role
- Principal Owner
- Tenure Start
- 2018
- Teams Owned
- New Orleans Saints, New Orleans Pelicans
- Birth Date
- January 26, 1947
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Gayle Benson's path to ownership began with a dramatic family rupture. On December 27, 2014, Tom Benson sent an email to his daughter Renee and grandchildren Ryan and Rita, stating he wanted "no further contact with any of you." He subsequently named Gayle as his heir, prompting lawsuits from the disinherited relatives who questioned his mental competency. A court determined Tom was mentally competent, allowing him to transfer ownership of the Saints and Pelicans to his wife. Before this transition, Gayle had already established herself in business; she and her second husband Thomas Bird renovated one hundred properties in their first ten years together. Following their divorce, she operated "Gayle Bird Interiors, Ltd." Her tenure as principal owner officially commenced after Tom's death in 2018, making her one of only ten female NFL owners.
In Their Own Story
The transition of power within the Benson empire was marked by legal battles and public scrutiny. When Tom Benson decided to leave his assets to Gayle rather than his blood relatives, the family filed suits challenging his decision. The courts upheld Tom's mental competency, validating the change in the will that secured Gayle's position as owner. Beyond the courtroom drama, Gayle faced immediate labor challenges upon taking the reins. Former personal assistant Rodney Henry filed a lawsuit accusing the Saints and her of racism and federal labor violations. While an NFL arbitrator ruled against Henry on the specific claims of racism, they awarded him overtime pay, a contractual payout for dismissal, and attorney's fees regarding the labor complaint. Despite these early hurdles, Gayle continued her husband's philanthropic legacy, with the Benson family donating $20 million for cancer care in 2015 and securing funding for new facilities like the Ochsner Children's Hospital.
Reader's Guide
Gayle Benson's leadership is defined by her role as a steward of two major New Orleans franchises: the Saints (NFL) and the Pelicans (NBA). She joins an exclusive group of female owners, including Sheila Ford Hamp of the Detroit Lions and Kim Pegula of the Buffalo Bills. In the NBA, she stands alongside figures like Jeanie Buss and Ann Walton Kroenke as one of five female owners. Her business acumen extends beyond sports; in July 2017, she and Tom finalized an agreement to buy a majority share of Dixie Brewing Co., reopening its distribution center in New Orleans East on August 7, 2018. She also maintains a presence in thoroughbred racing through G M B Racing, which owned the 2016 Kentucky Derby starter Mo Tom. Her philanthropic record is substantial, including donations to Tulane University's Yulman Stadium and the construction of a new children's hospital at Ochsner Health System.
Did You Know?
- Gayle Benson and her husband Tom renewed their wedding vows at St. Louis Cathedral on October 22, 2014, commemorating their tenth anniversary.
- Tom Benson initially planned to leave voting stock shares of the Saints and Pelicans to his daughter Renee and two grandchildren before changing his will in favor of Gayle.
- In July 2017, the Bensons acquired a majority share of Dixie Brewing Co., whose plant had been closed since Hurricane Katrina.
- Gayle Benson is one of only ten female owners in the NFL and one of five in the NBA.
- Her thoroughbred racing stable, G M B Racing, owned Mo Tom, a starter in the 2016 Kentucky Derby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Tom Benson in Saints history?
He was the American businessman and philanthropist who owned the New Orleans Saints for over three decades. His leadership transformed the franchise from a struggling team into a championship contender.
What role did he hold with the franchise?
Tom Benson served as the primary owner of the franchise, overseeing operations and major decisions. He held this position starting in 1985 until his passing in 2018.
When did he acquire the team?
Benson purchased the Saints in 1985, marking a crucial turning point after years of instability for the organization. This acquisition stabilized the franchise and allowed it to grow significantly under his guidance.
What major championship happened during his ownership?
Under his leadership, the team secured their first Super Bowl victory in history during Super Bowl XLIV. This triumph capped off a long period of rebuilding and success initiated by his investment.
Why is he significant to the local community?
Beyond football, Benson was cherished throughout Louisiana for his extensive charitable work and community support. His legacy remains one of dedication to both the team and the people of New Orleans.