Atlanta, GA, July 30, 2025
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, GA — Tom Cousins, Influential Atlanta Real Estate Tycoon and Philanthropist, Dies at 93
Summary of the Death and Legacy
Tom Cousins, a prominent figure in Atlanta’s real estate industry and community development, has died at the age of 93. His lifetime of achievements include transforming the cityscape through notable developments, supporting major sports franchises, and revitalizing neighborhoods. His contributions to Atlanta’s growth and community fabric have left a lasting legacy.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 7, 1931, in Atlanta, Georgia, Tom Cousins grew up in a modest household. His family moved frequently due to his father’s occupation as an auto distributor. During his youth, Cousins held various jobs, including mowing lawns and delivering newspapers, demonstrating an early work ethic. He attended grade school in Decatur and Rome, graduating from Darlington School in 1948.
At age 16, Cousins entered the University of Georgia, where he graduated in the top 10% of his class with a degree in finance. Following college, he served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, gaining leadership experience that would influence his future endeavors.
Start of Career in Real Estate
Cousins began his real estate career in the late 1950s with Knox Homes in Thomson, Georgia, excelling as a top salesperson. In 1958, he co-founded Cousins Properties with his father, focusing on developing subdivisions, apartment complexes, and shopping centers. By the 1960s, Cousins had become Georgia’s largest home builder, taking his company public in 1962.
His first notable office project was the Piedmont-Cain Building in Atlanta, completed in 1965. Soon after, he purchased significant land in downtown Atlanta, including areas that would become The Gulch and sites for the Five Points MARTA station.
Major Developments and Sports Investments
In 1968, Cousins acquired the St. Louis Hawks basketball team for over $2 million, relocating the franchise to Atlanta. He also purchased an NHL expansion team, naming it the Flames. To accommodate the teams, he built the Omni International Hotel, which later became the CNN Center when it was sold to media mogul Ted Turner in 1986.
Cousins announced the 191 Peachtree Tower in 1988, a 50-story skyscraper that became a staple of Atlanta’s skyline. In 1989, he revealed plans for Bank of America Plaza, which upon completion, at 1,023 feet, became the tallest building in the southern United States.
Community Revitalization Efforts
Toward community development, Cousins played a crucial role in revitalizing the East Lake neighborhood. His efforts included restoring East Lake Golf Club and implementing initiatives to reduce crime and improve living conditions. His innovative community work earned him widespread praise and recognition for transforming a troubled area into a thriving community asset.
Philanthropy and Community Support
Cousins’ philanthropic work extended to supporting several universities such as Auburn, Emory, and Georgia State. He also contributed to cultural institutions like the High Museum of Art. Through his foundation, he funded various educational and cultural initiatives, emphasizing the importance of community investment.
He served on numerous influential boards, including the University of Georgia Foundation and Georgia Research Alliance. His leadership helped shape policies and initiatives that benefited both the economic and cultural growth of Atlanta and Georgia.
Personal Life and Surviving Family
Tom Cousins was married to Ann Cousins, and they had two children, Grady Cousins and Lillian Giornelli. He also had a child, Caroline, who passed away in 1999. Besides his immediate family, he was survived by several grandchildren. His personal and professional legacy is marked by his commitment to community development and civic progress.
Conclusion
Tom Cousins’ death marks the end of an era for Atlanta, a city that was profoundly shaped by his visionary developments, sports investments, and community projects. His contributions continue to influence the city’s skyline, neighborhoods, and cultural landscape for generations to come.
FAQs
Who was Tom Cousins?
Tom Cousins was an Atlanta-based real estate developer, sports team owner, and philanthropist known for shaping much of Atlanta’s urban landscape and contributing to community development.
What are some of Tom Cousins’ major achievements?
He developed key Atlanta landmarks like the CNN Center and Bank of America Plaza, helped bring NBA and NHL teams to Atlanta, and revitalized neighborhoods including East Lake.
How did Tom Cousins contribute to the Atlanta community?
He invested in community redevelopment projects, especially in East Lake, reduced crime, and supported educational and cultural institutions through his foundation.
When did Tom Cousins pass away?
He passed away at the age of 93 on a recent date, leaving behind a legacy of urban development and philanthropy.
Key Features of Tom Cousins’ Life and Work
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Education | University of Georgia, Finance Degree |
| Major Business | Cousins Properties, real estate development |
| Notable Projects | CNN Center, Bank of America Plaza, 191 Peachtree Tower |
| Sports Franchise Ownership | St. Louis Hawks (relocated to Atlanta), NHL Flames |
| Philanthropic Focus | Community redevelopment, education, arts and culture |
| Community Impact | Revitalized East Lake neighborhood, reduced crime, enhanced urban infrastructure |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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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
