Gayle Benson does not have any biological children or direct heirs. Following the passing of her husband, Tom Benson, she became the sole owner of the New Orleans Saints and the New Orleans Pelicans after resolving complex legal disputes with members of the extended family. Because she has no direct heirs, she has established comprehensive succession and philanthropic plans, including provisions through the Gayle and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation to ensure that the proceeds from future sales of her sports franchises will benefit regional civic institutions and charitable causes in perpetuity.