Elaine Wynn, co-founder of Wynn Resorts, passes away at 82
Elaine Wynn, co-founder of Wynn Resorts and a long-time philanthropist, died on Monday morning at her Los Angeles home following a short illness. She was 82. According to local media reports, her passing was confirmed by the Elaine P. Wynn & Family Foundation.
In a statement, Wynn Resorts honoured its co-founder. “We are all deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Elaine Wynn, and send our condolences to her daughters, grandchildren, and her many close friends.”
“As co-founder and one of the largest shareholders of Wynn Resorts, she helped to create and grow the company to become the most esteemed luxury resort brand in the world. Her many talents and special touches are indelibly imprinted on the company and still evident throughout our resorts,” the statement said.
The company also reflected on Wynn’s dedication to staff. “Elaine cared deeply about the employees of our resorts, especially when they opened Wynn Las Vegas with her 20 years ago this month.”
A partner in building Las Vegas
Born Elaine Pascal in New York City in 1942, she moved to Las Vegas in 1967 with her then-husband, Steve Wynn. Together, they played a role in shaping modern Las Vegas, first through Mirage Resorts in the 1970s, then later through Wynn Resorts, launched in 2002. The opening of Wynn Las Vegas in 2005 marked a new era for luxury on the Strip.
Despite divorcing twice, Elaine and Steve Wynn remained key figures in the company, with Elaine maintaining her role as its largest individual shareholder even after Steve’s departure in 2018.
Philanthropy and public service
Elaine Wynn’s legacy extended well beyond gaming. Her Foundation described her as “a curator of dreams in a city built on aspirations.”
She was known for her commitment to education, co-chairing Nevada’s Blue Ribbon Education Reform Task Force in 2011 and serving twice as president of the State Board of Education. She also chaired the UNLV Foundation and played an active role in Communities In Schools (CIS), a programme that grew to support over 1.7 million students nationwide during her leadership.
The Foundation added, “Her most lasting contribution is the people-first culture she always prioritised. Her unwavering empathy for her colleagues and employees is undeniably the magic quality she infused in everything she touched.”
Remembered by friends and leaders
My thoughts are with the family and friends of the late Elaine Wynn. Her impact on Las Vegas was profound. As an instrumental philanthropist, she encouraged the evolution of culture in the city. She will be remembered for her dedication to our arts community.…
— Dina Titus (@repdinatitus) April 15, 2025
Wynn was also a dedicated patron of the arts. She supported the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and recently partnered with the City of Las Vegas to establish the Las Vegas Museum of Art.
“Her impact on Las Vegas was profound. As an instrumental philanthropist, she encouraged the evolution of culture in the city. She will be remembered for her dedication to our arts community,” Dina Titus, Congresswoman of the First District of Nevada, said on X.
Thinking of my friend, Elaine Wynn, today💔 pic.twitter.com/1ulivzmVcB
— Shelley Berkley (@mayoroflasvegas) April 15, 2025
Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley echoed the sentiment. “Elaine has been a force for compassion, the arts, and philanthropy in our city for many decades. Her spirit, creativity, and caring nature will live on through her foundation, the many projects she has had a hand in, and the many lives she has touched.”
Elaine Wynn was pure gold – full of grace, strength and purpose. I was honored to share my 2008 gold medal with her, but she was the real champion. Her generosity, vision and heart made a lasting impact that will never fade. I will always be grateful for our friendship. Rest in… pic.twitter.com/LG4BHaLh9D
— Jason Kidd (@RealJasonKidd) April 15, 2025
Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd offered a personal tribute. “Elaine Wynn was pure gold – full of grace, strength, and purpose. I was honoured to share my 2008 gold medal with her, but she was the real champion. Her generosity, vision, and heart made a lasting impact that will never fade.”
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