NFL team owner dies aged 90 after being hospitalized with the flu

The owner of the New Orleans Saints has passed away. His wife, Gayle Marie Benson, revealed that he died peacefully at a local hospital.

According to Faith Family America, Tom Benson was 90-years-old at the time of his death. He passed away on March 15, 2018, and has received many messages from fans and fellow celebrities.

According to the New Orleans Saints, Tom Benson, their owner, passed away with his wife, Gayle Marie Benson, at his side. Benson was initially hospitalized with the flu on February 16, 2018.

Thomas Milton Benson, Jr. was born and raised in New Orleans. He was raised in the 7th Ward neighborhood of the city.

Benson graduated from St. Aloysius High School and attended Loyola University in New Orleans. There he studied business and accounting until he enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

‘I’ve just been informed Mr.Tom Benson has passed away at the age of 90. Thank you for all that you’ve done for the city of New Orleans. You will be missed. Rest in Paradise’

Bryan Bienemy, Twitter, March 15, 2018

But after the end of the war, he made sure that he finished his degree. After that, Benson rose in the financial world rapidly.

In 1985, he purchased the New Orleans Saints to prevent the team from being relocated. In 1987, the team advanced to the playoffs for the first time.

‘Since being purchased by Mr. Benson in 1985, the Saints have earned 11 playoff berths, six division titles and captured Super Bowl XLIV in 2009, building a foundation for continued success, on and off the field,’ wrote the New Orleans Saints website.

The owner’s input in the league was instrumental in the team's success. He also played a major role in New Orleans becoming a Super Bowl host five times since he purchased the team.

In 2012, he bought the NBA New Orleans Hornets. He rebranded them and renamed them the New Orleans Pelicans.

Benson also spent time on charitable, faith-based, and educational causes in the New Orleans and South Texas communities. His businesses and teams put millions of dollars back into the community every year.

Many people have taken to Twitter to remember him and his contributions.