Mocobizscene- Earlier this year, Forbes released its annual Forbes 400 list, which ranks the wealthiest individuals in America based on their net worth. The collective wealth of the top 400 Americans has witnessed a remarkable 40% surge over the past few years, reaching a staggering $4.5 trillion. Notably, nearly all of these individuals have experienced an increase in their wealth compared to the previous year.

Today, we will explore the wealthiest individual in New Orleans, Louisiana. According to Forbes Magazine, Kentucky is home to only one billionaire on the Forbes 400 list. Her name is Gayle Benson, and she is ranked as the 204th richest person in the country.

Who is Gayle Benson?

Gayle Benson, an American billionaire and businesswoman, is the proud owner of two premier sports franchises. Known for her charismatic nature, she exudes confidence and humility in her speech. Moreover, she has a deep affection for New Orleans.

Gayle Benson, born on January 26, 1947, had her upbringing in Algiers, a historic neighbourhood situated as the sole Orleans Parish community to the west of the Mississippi River.

Gayle began her career in receptionist and secretarial roles before teaming up with her second husband, Thomas Bird, to purchase and renovate properties. Although the couple divorced in 1987, Gayle continued conducting business under Gayle Bird Interiors, Ltd.

In 2004, she tied the knot with Thomas Benson and remained happily married to him until his passing in 2018. During the last four years, he was embroiled in a legal dispute with his daughter and grandchildren. The contentious issue was his choice to transfer control of certain assets from his daughter and her children to Gayle Benson.

According to a report by Bloomberg, Rita and Ryan Le Blanc, Benson’s grandchildren, played active roles in managing certain aspects of the family businesses. The conflict between them escalated to the point where a mental competency hearing was held in New Orleans. During the hearing, a judge determined that despite some memory lapses, Benson could still handle his affairs.

After his passing, she assumed ownership of The New Orleans Pelicans of the National Basketball Association and the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League.

Who will inherit the New Orleans Saints?

Gayle Benson possesses outstanding leadership skills and exudes a strong presence within the local community. She is dedicated to making meaningful contributions to the development and advancement of the Gulf South region.

Since 2007, the foundation of Gayle and Tom Benson has generously contributed over $100 million to various local organizations, including Catholic schools, universities, and hospitals, as reported by NOLA.com.

Gayle’s empire has been shrouded in secrecy due to her lack of heirs. However, recent indicators suggest that the Saints may soon be up for sale.

According to Jeff Duncan, the Saints will be sold once Gayle Benson passes away. The substantial proceeds from the sale, which could amount to billions of dollars, will then be donated to charitable organizations for the betterment of the people in New Orleans. Additionally, the team’s executives have already begun making efforts to guarantee that the new owners will maintain the Saints’ presence in the city.

Gayle said, “I can’t take it with me. God gives us gifts, and this is a gift. I am a steward of this (organization). And we help other people with it. My wish is to scatter all the good and gifts that God and Tom have given me to this city and community.”

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