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 — Legendary Real Estate Developer and Philanthropist Tom Cousins Dies at 93
Tom Cousins, a prominent figure in Atlanta’s real estate landscape and community development, has passed away at the age of 93. His death marks the end of an era for the city, where he left an indelible mark through his numerous development projects, sports franchise acquisitions, and philanthropic pursuits.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 7, 1931, in Atlanta, Georgia, Tom Cousins was raised in a modest household. His family moved frequently during his childhood due to his father’s occupation as an auto distributor. As a young boy, Cousins took on various jobs, including mowing lawns and delivering newspapers, which laid the groundwork for his strong work ethic. He attended grade school in Decatur and Rome, later graduating from Darlington School in 1948.
At just 16, he enrolled early at the University of Georgia, where he earned a finance degree in the top 10% of his class. Following his graduation, Cousins served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, gaining leadership experience before entering the world of real estate development.
Beginnings in Real Estate
Cousins launched his real estate career with Knox Homes in Thomson, Georgia, quickly establishing himself as a top salesperson. In 1958, he co-founded Cousins Properties with his father, initially focusing on building subdivisions, apartments, and shopping centers. During the 1960s, he became Georgia’s largest home builder and took his company public in 1962, marking a significant milestone in his business career.
His first notable office project, the Piedmont-Cain Building in Atlanta, was completed in 1965. By this time, he was actively purchasing land in downtown Atlanta, including areas that would later become known as The Gulch and sites for the Five Points MARTA station.
Development of Atlanta Landmarks
In the late 1960s, Cousins expanded into sports franchise investments and major constructions. In 1968, he purchased the St. Louis Hawks for over $2 million, successfully relocating the team to Atlanta. He later acquired an NHL expansion franchise, naming it the Flames.
Additionally, he was involved in the development of the Omni International Hotel, which was built to accommodate NBA and NFL teams and later became the CNN Center after being sold to Ted Turner in 1986. His vision continued with the planning of the 191 Peachtree Tower in 1988, a 50-story skyscraper, and the Bank of America Plaza in 1989, which stands at 1,023 feet as the tallest building in the southern United States.
Community Revitalization Efforts
Beyond commercial development, Cousins played an influential role in community redevelopment, especially in the East Lake neighborhood of Atlanta. He revitalized the East Lake Golf Club and worked to improve living conditions in the East Lake Meadows housing project, reducing crime and fostering community growth. His efforts earned recognition for transforming the neighborhood into a thriving area with a renewed sense of safety and pride.
Philanthropic Contributions and Civic Engagement
Cousins was devoted to philanthropy, supporting numerous educational and cultural initiatives through his foundation. His contributions included donations to universities such as Auburn, Emory, and Georgia State, as well as cultural institutions like the High Museum of Art. He served on several influential boards, including the University of Georgia Foundation and the Georgia Research Alliance, playing a significant role in regional development and education.
Personal Life and Legacy
He was survived by his wife, Ann Cousins, and his children, Grady Cousins and Lillian Giornelli. He also had several grandchildren. His eldest child, Caroline, passed away in 1999. Throughout his life, Cousins remained committed to improving Atlanta’s urban landscape and community fabric.
Summary
Tom Cousins’ life spanned more than nine decades of impactful work that shaped Atlanta’s skyline and community. His groundbreaking developments—such as the Georgia World Congress Center, CNN Center, and Bank of America Plaza—cement his legacy as a transformative figure in the city’s economic and civic history. His contributions to sports, real estate, and social services continue to influence Atlanta’s growth and development.
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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
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