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Horizon Insight News

Tom Benson - Trivia, Family, Bio

Author

Emily Phillips

Updated on February 06, 2026

Billionaire who owned both the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans. He made his fortune by founding a company called Benson Financial.

Before Fame

He studied accounting at Loyola University of New Orleans and later owned a Chevrolet dealership.

Trivia

After Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, Benson insisted that the Saints team continue to be based in the city.

Family Life

His three marriages -- to Shirley Landry, Grace Marie Trudeau, and Gayle Marie LaJaunie -- produced seven children.

Associated With

He hired head coach Sean Payton, who led the Saints to a Super Bowl title in 2009.