The Atlanta skyline highlights the extensive urban development and community revitalization efforts shaped by influential developers.
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 development of Atlanta’s urban landscape and an influential philanthropist, has died at the age of 93. His career spanned more than four decades, during which he left a profound mark on the city’s architecture, sports, and community revitalization efforts.
Born on December 7, 1931, in Atlanta, Tom Cousins grew up in a modest family. His father was an auto distributor, leading his family to move frequently during his childhood. While attending grade school in Decatur and Rome, Cousins worked various jobs such as mowing lawns and delivering newspapers. He graduated from Darlington School in 1948 before enrolling at the University of Georgia at just 16 years old. He graduated in the top 10% of his class with a degree in finance. Following his graduation, he served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Air Force.
After military service, Cousins launched his real estate career with Knox Homes in Thomson, Georgia, quickly establishing himself as a top salesperson. In 1958, he founded Cousins Properties alongside his father, transforming it into one of Georgia’s leading developers of subdivisions, apartments, and shopping centers. By the 1960s, Cousins had become Georgia’s largest home builder and took his company public in 1962.
Cousins’ first major office project was the Piedmont-Cain Building in Atlanta, completed in 1965. Beginning in 1966, he began purchasing land in downtown Atlanta, setting the stage for future urban development including sites that would become The Gulch and transportation hubs like the Five Points MARTA station.
He also made significant investments in sports franchises, purchasing the St. Louis Hawks NBA team for over $2 million in 1968 and relocating it to Atlanta. Additionally, he acquired an NHL expansion franchise, naming it the Flames. In the late 1980s, he announced plans for notable skyscrapers, including the twin-crowned 191 Peachtree Tower in 1988 and the Bank of America Plaza in 1989, which at 1,023 feet became the tallest building in the southern United States.
Cousins played a key role in developing major Atlanta landmarks, including the CNN Center and the Omni International Hotel, the latter of which later became the CNN Center after being sold to Ted Turner in 1986. His impact extended beyond skyline projects to community development, notably through the revival of the East Lake neighborhood.
He helped restore the East Lake Golf Club and spearheaded efforts to reduce crime in the area, transforming the neighborhood into a safer and more vibrant community. His work in East Lake earned praise for its positive social impact and revitalization efforts.
As a dedicated philanthropist, Cousins supported universities such as Auburn, Emory, and Georgia State through his foundation. He also contributed to cultural institutions, including the High Museum of Art. His service extended to numerous boards, including the University of Georgia Foundation and the Georgia Research Alliance, reflecting his deep commitment to education and research.
Tom Cousins was married to Ann Cousins, and they had two children, Grady Cousins and Lillian Giornelli. He also had a child named Caroline who passed away in 1999, and several grandchildren. Cousins’ death marks the loss of a key figure whose work helped shape Atlanta’s urban and cultural landscape.
His influence is evident in the city’s prominent commercial buildings, sports teams, and community initiatives. Tom Cousins’ legacy as a developer and philanthropist continues to impact Atlanta, leaving a lasting imprint on its history and development.
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