American Business Legend Passes Away at 89

His wife of 25 years, Jackie Siegel — known to many as the “Queen of Versailles” — broke the news in an emotional Instagram post, calling David’s death “devastating” and praising the life they built together.

“To say we are devastated is an understatement,” Jackie wrote. “But I find peace knowing our daughter Victoria greeted him in heaven with a hug and the word he loved most: ‘Dad.’”

David Siegel, a longtime supporter of conservative causes and President Donald Trump, became a symbol of the American Dream after founding Westgate Resorts in the early 1980s — right out of his garage.

While the corporate media often focused on his wealth, those closest to David say he never strayed from his values. According to Westgate CEO Jim Gissy, Siegel “never forgot his humble roots” and used his success to uplift thousands of employees, customers, and aspiring business owners.

“David lived and breathed American opportunity,” Gissy said. “He believed that if you worked hard and dreamed big, there was no ceiling.”

His son, Richard Siegel, said his father’s final months were spent at home “surrounded by his loving wife Jacqueline, his children, and his closest friends.”

David and Jackie suffered an unimaginable loss in 2015 when their daughter Victoria, just 18, died of an accidental drug overdose. That tragedy transformed their lives — and their mission.

Together, the Siegels launched Victoria’s Voice Foundation, a nonprofit focused on drug prevention and recovery, now recognized by national leaders including former President Trump, who praised their efforts during a 2019 opioid summit.

“They turned heartbreak into action,” said a close family friend. “David was always looking for ways to serve this country — and helping families fight addiction became his last great calling.”

The Siegels gained international attention in 2012 with the release of The Queen of Versailles, a documentary chronicling their attempt to build a $100 million, 90,000-square-foot mansion during the Great Recession. It was a story not just of wealth — but of resilience.

The home, still under construction in Florida, has become a cultural symbol — now even adapted into a Broadway musical starring Kristin Chenoweth.

“David didn’t build Versailles to show off,” said a Westgate executive. “He built it because he believed in dreaming big and never giving up. That’s the America he loved.”

Siegel had been battling cancer in recent years, according to the Las Vegas Journal-Review, but remained active in business and philanthropy until the very end.

Jackie’s final words in her tribute reflect the faith that carried their family through the highs and lows: “Life is a precious gift from God — and my husband has found his peace with Him.”

David Siegel is survived by his wife, Jackie, and eight children. A memorial is expected to be held later this month at the family’s Orlando estate.

🇺🇸 Rest in Peace, David Siegel. You embodied the spirit of American greatness.