Atlanta Mourns Real Estate Pioneer Tom Cousins

A vibrant city skyline representing Atlanta's architectural evolution and community revitalization.

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 — The city mourns the loss of Tom Cousins, a prominent figure in the real estate industry and a dedicated philanthropist, who passed away at the age of 93.

Tom Cousins, regarded as a transformative force in Atlanta’s development and community revitalization, died recently after a career spanning over four decades. His contributions to the city’s architecture, sports landscape, and social initiatives have left an enduring legacy.

Early Life and Education

Born on December 7, 1931, in Atlanta, Cousins grew up in a modest household. His family moved frequently due to his father’s job as an auto distributor. During his childhood, he took on various jobs, such as mowing lawns and delivering newspapers, to support himself. He attended grade school in Decatur and Rome before graduating from Darlington School in 1948.

At age 16, Cousins enrolled at the University of Georgia, where he graduated in the top 10% of his class with a finance degree. After completing his education, he served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.

Start of Career and Real Estate Development

His real estate journey began in the 1960s when he worked with his father selling $11,000 houses. In 1958, he founded Cousins Properties, which grew to become a leading developer involved in subdivisions, apartments, and shopping centers. By the 1960s, he had become the largest home builder in Georgia and took the company public in 1962.

His first notable office project was the Piedmont-Cain Building completed in Atlanta in 1965. Starting in 1966, he purchased land in downtown Atlanta, including areas that would later become The Gulch and sites for the Five Points MARTA station.

Sports and Major Projects

Cousins was instrumental in relocating professional sports teams to Atlanta. In 1968, he purchased the St. Louis Hawks for over $2 million and brought the team to Atlanta. He also acquired an NHL franchise, naming it the Flames. The construction of the Omni International Hotel, built for these teams, later became the CNN Center when sold to Ted Turner in 1986.

Throughout the 1980s, Cousins unveiled plans for iconic buildings including the 191 Peachtree Tower, a prominent 50-story structure completed in 1988, and the Bank of America Plaza in 1989, which became the tallest building in the South at 1,023 feet.

Community Revitalization and Philanthropy

Cousins played a vital role in revitalizing Atlanta’s East Lake neighborhood. He led efforts to restore East Lake Golf Club and transform the area, substantially reducing crime and restoring community pride. His work earned widespread recognition for its positive social impact.

He established a foundation supporting higher education and cultural initiatives, contributing to institutions such as Universities of Auburn, Emory, and Georgia State, and cultural landmarks like the High Museum of Art.

His service extended to numerous boards, including the University of Georgia Foundation and the Georgia Research Alliance.

Legacy and Family

Tom Cousins served as CEO of Cousins Properties until 2002 and remained chairman until December 2006. His personal life included his wife, Ann Cousins, and two children, Grady Cousins and Lillian Giornelli. He also mourned the loss of his child, Caroline, who passed away in 1999.

The city of Atlanta remembers Cousins for his visionary development projects, dedication to community improvement, and support of education and culture, cementing his place as a key figure in the city’s modern history.

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