| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Robert Carter Benson |
| Birthdate | September 1, 1948 |
| Death | January 29, 1986 (aged 37; cancer) |
| Relationship | Adopted son of Tom and Shirley Benson |
| Education | Central Catholic High School, San Antonio (Class of 1966) |
| Memorials | Endowment fund and library at Central Catholic HS; library at St. Anthony Catholic School in San Antonio |
Early Life and Education
Born into the Benson family, Robert Carter Benson was raised to value service, faith, and education. His upbringing in San Antonio, Texas, by Tom and Shirley Benson prepared him for a life of community service. He graduated with honors in 1966, impressing classmates and teachers.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth | Born September 1, 1948, in San Antonio, Texas |
| Adoption | Legally adopted by Tom and Shirley Benson shortly after birth |
| Childhood Home | Raised in a family environment focused on education, faith, and civic responsibility |
| High School | Graduated from Central Catholic High School, San Antonio, in 1966 |
| Academic Interests | Pursued literature, history, and volunteer initiatives throughout his teenage years |
Family and Legacy
Tom Benson’s adopted son Robert was raised to embrace entrepreneurship, resilience, and philanthropy. The Benson family developed strong adoptive sibling ties and stressed giving back. These values would later inform Tom’s transformation of major professional sports organizations and the family’s humanitarian activity.
| Member/Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Father | Tom Benson – Self-made entrepreneur who acquired the New Orleans Saints (1985) and Pelicans (2012) to secure their future in the city |
| Mother | Shirley Benson – Early champion of family-led charitable initiatives before her passing |
| Siblings | Renee and Jeanne Marie Benson – Adopted daughters who, alongside Robert, shared in the family’s values and commitments |
| Family Business | Diverse holdings spanning automotive dealerships, real estate ventures, and professional sports franchises |
| Family Values | Emphasis on community resilience, educational advancement, and faith-driven philanthropy |
Memorials and Philanthropy
The Benson family preserved Robert’s short life to inspire future generations. Several schools hold his name or receive his finances. These tributes demonstrate the family’s commitment to learning and community service.
| Memorial/Program | Location | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Endowment Fund | Central Catholic High School, San Antonio | Provides annual scholarships for deserving students |
| Benson Memorial Library | Central Catholic High School, San Antonio | Houses collections supporting literature and history studies |
| Robert C. Benson Library | St. Anthony Catholic School, San Antonio | Offers academic resources and reading programs |
| Robert Benson Scholarship | Central Catholic High School Alumni Association | Awards tuition assistance to graduates pursuing higher education |
| Educational Grants | Various San Antonio parochial schools | Funds classroom resources and extracurricular learning projects |
Contemporary Family Impact
Robert’s early death limited his direct contributions, but the Benson family continues his legacy through civic and charity work. Gayle Benson leads the family in using its power and riches to benefit New Orleans and beyond. Recent activities combine high-profile engagement and strong community backing.
| Initiative | Impact |
|---|---|
| Team Ownership | Gayle Benson maintains control of the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, ensuring stability |
| $1 Million Terror Relief Donation | Funds distributed via Greater New Orleans Foundation and United Way to support attack survivors |
| Super Bowl 2025 Attendance | Hosted President Trump at Caesars Superdome, marking the first sitting president at the event |
| Ochsner Cancer Institute Gift | $20 million donation in 2015, honoring Robert’s memory and advancing cancer research |
| Ongoing Educational Initiatives | Continued funding of scholarships, libraries, and grant programs in San Antonio and New Orleans |
FAQ
Who was Robert Carter Benson?
Robert Carter Benson, adopted son of Tom and Shirley Benson, was raised in San Antonio, Texas, and died of cancer at 37. He was known for his academic promise.
How did Robert Benson die?
He died of cancer at 37 on January 29, 1986.
What memorials honor Robert’s legacy?
His name funds an academic prize and two libraries—Central Catholic High School and St. Anthony Catholic School in San Antonio.
How do the Benson family maintain community impact?
The Benson family owns two professional sports teams and supports New Orleans and San Antonio education and relief initiatives under Gayle Benson.
