Tom Benson's estranged family members invited to private viewing of his body, source says

The estranged daughter and grandchildren of Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson had the opportunity to attend a private viewing of his body Tuesday night at Notre Dame Seminary, according to a source close to the situation. Benson died last week at 90.

The source said Renee Benson and her children Rita and Ryan LeBlanc had the opportunity to pay their respects before the public visitation Wednesday and Thursday.

Benson’s wife, Gayle, who is not Rita’s mother, extended the invitation for the viewing, the source said. Gayle Benson became the owner of the Saints and Pelicans last week when Tom Benson died after being hospitalized for nearly a month.

Following the public visitation, Benson will be remembered in a funeral Mass at noon Friday at St. Louis Cathedral. Only invited guests will be allowed to attend the Mass, though WLAE-TV will televise the service.

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