Tom Cousins, Influential Atlanta Developer, Passes Away

News Summary

Tom Cousins, a prominent figure in Atlanta’s real estate and community development sectors, has passed away at the age of 93. Over four decades, his work significantly impacted the city’s landscape, contributing to its sporting and cultural institutions. Cousins co-founded Cousins Properties, constructed landmark buildings, and was involved in community renewal efforts. His legacy includes revitalized neighborhoods, educational support, and significant contributions to Atlanta’s identity.

Atlanta, Georgia — Tom Cousins, a prominent figure in the city’s real estate development and philanthropic community, has died at the age of 93.

Significant Career Achievements and Contributions

Tom Cousins was widely recognized for his extensive influence on Atlanta’s landscape over more than four decades. He began his career in the 1960s, selling modestly priced homes alongside his father. His dedication and strategic vision led him to become a leading developer in the region, responsible for major landmarks and urban revitalization projects.

Among his notable achievements, Cousins played a pivotal role in attracting professional sports teams to Atlanta. His efforts facilitated the arrival of the NBA’s St. Louis Hawks, which he purchased in 1968 for over $2 million and relocated to Atlanta. He also secured an NHL franchise, named the Flames, further enhancing Atlanta’s presence in professional sports. Rivaling these sports investments, he was instrumental in constructing venues such as the Omni International Hotel—which later became the CNN Center when sold to media mogul Ted Turner in 1986—and the innovative 191 Peachtree Tower, completed in 1988. His 1989 design for the Bank of America Plaza, standing at 1,023 feet, made it the tallest building in the southern United States.

Urban Development and Community Revitalization

Cousins’s influence extended beyond commercial real estate into significant urban renewal projects. He was instrumental in developing key downtown Atlanta areas, including sites that would later become The Gulch and the location for the Five Points MARTA station.

He also contributed substantially to Atlanta’s infrastructure, donating land for the Georgia World Congress Center, enhancing the city’s convention and event capabilities.

Perhaps most notably, Cousins invested heavily in revitalizing the East Lake neighborhood, transforming a troubled housing project into a thriving community. His efforts contributed to reductions in crime and improved living conditions, earning him recognition for community service. His work in this area was hailed as a model of urban renewal and social impact.

Philanthropic Activities and Educational Involvement

Through his foundation, Tom Cousins supported numerous educational institutions—including Auburn University, Emory University, and Georgia State University. Additionally, he contributed to cultural organizations such as the High Museum of Art, fostering arts and cultural development in Atlanta.

His civic engagement included serving on various influential boards, including the University of Georgia Foundation and the Georgia Research Alliance, reflecting his broader commitment to institutional growth and regional development.

Early Life and Personal Background

B born on December 7, 1931, in Atlanta, Cousins grew up in a modest household, experiencing frequent moves due to his father’s job as an auto distributor. During his youth, he held multiple jobs such as mowing lawns and delivering newspapers. He attended grade school in Decatur and Rome, graduating from Darlington School in 1948.

He entered the University of Georgia at age 16, earning a degree in finance with top 10% academic honors. After college, Cousins served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force before launching his career in real estate.

Business Foundations and Expansion

In 1958, along with his father, he founded Cousins Properties, transforming it into a major developer of subdivisions, apartments, and shopping centers. By the 1960s, his company had become Georgia’s largest home builder and went public in 1962. His first notable office project was the Piedmont-Cain Building in Atlanta, completed in 1965.

Later Years and Legacy

Tom Cousins remained active in the real estate industry until his retirement from executive roles in the early 2000s. He served as CEO of Cousins Properties until 2002 and as chairman until December 2006. He is survived by his wife, Ann Cousins, two children, Grady Cousins and Lillian Giornelli, several grandchildren, and a child, Caroline, who passed away in 1999.

Summary

Tom Cousins’s life was marked by extensive contributions to Atlanta’s urban landscape, sports culture, and community development. His work helped shape Atlanta into a prominent southern metropolis, and his philanthropic efforts left a lasting impression on the city’s educational and cultural institutions. His legacy as a builder and community advocate continues to influence Atlanta’s growth and identity.

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Additional Resources

• WSBTV: Atlanta Real Estate Tycoon Tom Cousins Has Died at 93
• NBA.com: Original Hawks Owner Tom Cousins Dead at 93
• AJC: Tom Cousins, Seminal Atlanta Developer and Philanthropist Dies
• WSB Radio: Tom Cousins, Real Estate Tycoon Who Helped Shape Atlanta Skyline Dies at 93
• Global Golf Post: The Legacy of Tom Cousins
• Wikipedia: Tom Cousins
• Google Search: Tom Cousins Atlanta
• Google Scholar: Tom Cousins
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tom Cousins
• Google News: Tom Cousins