"She will forever reign": Tributes pour in as businesswoman and philanthropist Elaine Wynn dies at 82

Elaine Wynn, an American businesswoman and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 82. She was one of the co-founders of Mirage Resorts and Wynn Resorts. Over the years, she played an important part in developing the Las Vegas Strip. She also served on the board of Wynn Resorts and was involved in education and the arts through her philanthropic work. She was often referred to as the Queen of Vegas.

Her demise news was announced on April 15 by the Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation:

"As we remember Elaine Wynn, we celebrate a life lived with purpose—a life that embraced the extraordinary potential of Las Vegas, a city she truly loved. Her legacy will echo through the vibrant streets and the stories of those she touched. In the heart and soul of Las Vegas, she will forever reign, not as Ms. Las Vegas, but as a visionary who turned possibilities into realities, inspiring all who followed in her footsteps."

According to Foundation Executive Director Punam Mathur, Wynn died at her Los Angeles home on April 15. She was surrounded by her close family at the time of her death.

Notable figures mourn the passing of Elaine Wynn

The sad demise of Wynn has left her fans and close ones in grief. The Governor of Nevada, Joe Lombardo, paid tribute to Elaine Wynn on X:

"Donna and I were saddened to hear of the passing of Elaine Wynn this morning. Not only was Elaine a visionary Las Vegas businesswoman, but she was an unparalleled philanthropist with a deep love for improving education and bettering her community. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with her family and loved ones."

President of MGM Resorts International, Bill Hornbuckle, wrote on LinkedIn:

"The legacy Elaine Wynn leaves behind for the hospitality and gaming industry is powerful and enduring. Her incredible foresight, creative vision, and business acumen were responsible for the some of the world’s most iconic properties – many of them within the MGM Resorts portfolio. Her leadership helped set the standard for luxury and guest service for integrated resorts."

Journalist and former First Lady of California, Maria Shriver, also paid her tribute to Wynn:

"She was the kind of friend that cared. I will miss her deeply. We were honoring her at our forum next month in Las Vegas. She will continue to be honored in death as she was honored in life. My love goes out to her family for whom she was the rock."

United States Senator Jacky Rosen left a heartfelt message for Wynn on X:

"I’m incredibly saddened to hear about Elaine Wynn’s passing. Elaine was a trailblazer and a role model who showed us how strong women lead the way. She played an integral role in helping make Las Vegas the world class-destination it is today and gave back to our community through education and the arts. She was also a dear friend, and this is a tremendous loss."

Wynn received tributes from UNLV Officer in Charge Chris Heavey, Attorney and former Mayor of Las Vegas Oscar Goodman, Mayor of Las Vegas Shelley Berkley, and many other notable figures from the business industry.

Elaine Wynn was a member of the board of trustees for the Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation. She also helped raise funds for the University of Nevada by serving as chair of the UNLV Foundation.

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