Updated: January 04, 2026
In the glittering world of Palm Beach high society, spotlighted by Netflix’s hit reality series Members Only: Palm Beach, Gale Brophy has emerged as a captivating figure. Known as the “Grande Dame” of the elite scene, she’s a seasoned socialite, philanthropist, and businesswoman. But many viewers are curious about her personal history, particularly her ex-husband, B. Giles Brophy. Let’s dive into who he was, their marriage, and the enduring impact of their partnership.
Table of Contents
Who Was Gale Brophy’s Ex-Husband?
Gale Brophy’s ex-husband was B. Giles Brophy (often referred to as Giles Brophy), a prominent Wall Street executive and thoroughbred horse racing enthusiast. Giles founded and owned Giles Securities, a successful New York trading firm in Manhattan, building a substantial fortune through finance.
He entered the horse racing world in the 1980s, purchasing his first horse in 1984. His passion led to major successes, including co-owning horses that competed at the highest levels. Giles passed away in 2006 at age 69 after a battle with bone-marrow cancer and leukemia.
Gale and Giles shared a deep professional and personal bond. They co-owned several Wall Street companies and celebrated triumphs in horse racing. In her heartfelt tribute after his passing, Gale described him as her “mentor, best friend, and father of our son.”
Their Marriage and Divorce
Gale and Giles Brophy were married during a dynamic period of their lives, blending finance, high society, and equestrian pursuits. They divorced before his death—he later remarried Patricia Rohrbaugh Brophy and had four more children.
Despite the divorce, Gale spoke warmly of their shared achievements. They had one son together, who was around 15 at the time of Giles’ passing in 2006.
Their partnership extended to business: Gale worked as an active partner in firms like Brophy Gestal Knight Partnership before its sale.
Shared Success: The Kentucky Derby Triumph
One of the most iconic chapters in their story was co-owning Strike the Gold, the winner of the 1991 Kentucky Derby. Trained by Nick Zito, the horse delivered a thrilling victory, marking a pinnacle for both Gale and Giles.
This win wasn’t just a trophy—it represented years of dedication to thoroughbred breeding and racing. Gale has often called it a defining moment, proudly highlighting it in her bio.
Here’s a quick overview of key details related to Gale Brophy’s ex-husband and their legacy:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | B. Giles Brophy |
| Profession | Founder and President of Giles Securities (Wall Street trading firm) |
| Marriage to Gale | Married (divorced prior to 2006); one son together |
| Notable Achievement | Co-owner of 1991 Kentucky Derby winner Strike the Gold |
| Other Horses | Co-owned Thirty Six Red (successful in stakes races) |
| Passing | 2006, aged 69, after battling cancer |
| Post-Divorce | Remarried to Patricia Rohrbaugh Brophy; four additional children |
Gale Brophy’s Life After Divorce
Following the divorce and Giles’ passing, Gale forged ahead independently. Today, she’s the CEO and sole owner of Estates by Brophy, managing two luxurious five-star estates in the Catskills—perfect for exclusive retreats and events.
She’s also a dedicated philanthropist, serving on boards for the American Red Cross and other causes. On Members Only: Palm Beach (premiered December 2025), Gale mentors younger socialites, sharing wisdom from her decades in the scene.
- Built a thriving hospitality business from the ground up
- Continued passion for thoroughbred horses and breeding
- Became a beloved (and sometimes controversial) figure in Palm Beach circles
- Embraced reality TV fame with grace and stories from her extraordinary life
Conclusion
Gale Brophy’s ex-husband, B. Giles Brophy, was more than a footnote—he was a key partner in her rise through finance and horse racing worlds. Their shared victories, like the 1991 Kentucky Derby win, created a lasting legacy that Gale carries forward today. From Wall Street power plays to Palm Beach glamour, their story is one of ambition, success, and resilience. As Gale continues to shine on screen and in society, it’s clear her past with Giles helped shape the confident, accomplished woman we see now. Whether you’re a fan of Members Only: Palm Beach or just intrigued by high-society tales, Gale’s journey reminds us that true legacy comes from bold pursuits and meaningful connections.