Elaine Wynn, ‘Queen of Las Vegas’ and Philanthropist, Passes Away at 82
Elaine Farrell Wynn, a towering figure in American business, education philanthropy, and the art world, passed away peacefully at her home in Los Angeles on April 14, 2025. She was 82.
Born Elaine Farrell Pascal on April 28, 1942, in New York City, she grew up in a middle-class Jewish family and went on to earn a degree in political science from George Washington University in 1964. Her vision and tenacity would later shape the modern Las Vegas Strip and elevate her to the status of one of America’s most influential businesswomen.
Elaine co-founded Mirage Resorts in 1976 and Wynn Resorts in 2000 with her former husband, casino mogul Steve Wynn. While their high-profile relationship saw two marriages and two divorces, Elaine emerged as an independent force in the gaming industry. She played a key role in building the empire, and by 2018, she became the company’s largest shareholder, controlling a 9% stake valued at nearly $2 billion.
In a decisive move that showcased her strength, she led a shareholder revolt in 2018 to reform the board of Wynn Resorts following allegations against her ex-husband. Her leadership helped restore trust and direction in the company, cementing her legacy as a responsible steward and trailblazer in a male-dominated industry.
Beyond the boardroom, Elaine Wynn was a passionate supporter of education, art, and culture. She chaired the UNLV Foundation and served on Nevada’s State Board of Education. She was also appointed to the board of trustees of the Kennedy Center by President Obama in 2011. Her devotion to underserved children found form in her national leadership role with Communities In Schools.
A notable art collector, Wynn made headlines in 2013 when she purchased Francis Bacon’s Three Studies of Lucian Freud for over $142 million. She later loaned the masterpiece to the Portland Art Museum, underscoring her belief in public access to fine art.
In 2024, she partnered with Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman to announce the upcoming Las Vegas Museum of Art, a visionary project set to open in 2028 in partnership with the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, where she was co-chair.
Elaine’s life was not without personal trials. In 1993, her daughter Kevyn was kidnapped in a shocking incident that ended with a $1.45 million ransom and her safe return. Despite such hardship, Elaine remained resilient and committed to family and community.
She is survived by her two daughters, Kevyn and Gillian, and her nephew, Andrew Pascal. At the time of her death, she still held a significant stake in Wynn Resorts, though Houston-based investor Tilman Fertitta had recently become the company’s largest shareholder.
Elaine Wynn’s life was a masterclass in grace, grit, and giving. She not only helped redefine Las Vegas but also left a lasting impact on education and the arts in America. Her absence will be deeply felt across the worlds she touched—but her legacy will live on in bright lights and bold dreams.
FAQs
Q: What was Elaine Wynn known for?
A: Elaine Wynn was known as a co-founder of Mirage Resorts and Wynn Resorts, a major art collector, and a leading philanthropist in education and the arts.
Q: How did Elaine Wynn die?
A: She died at home in Los Angeles following a brief illness on April 14, 2025.
Q: Did Elaine Wynn have children?
A: Yes, she had two daughters, Kevyn and Gillian Wynn.
Q: What was her contribution to the art world?
A: She was an avid collector and supporter of public art access. She made headlines for buying a $142 million Francis Bacon painting and helped establish the upcoming Las Vegas Museum of Art.
Q: What role did she play in Wynn Resorts?
A: Elaine Wynn co-founded the company and was its largest shareholder, actively shaping its governance and direction, especially during times of crisis.