Atlanta, GA, July 29, 2025
News Summary
Tom Cousins, the influential real estate developer in Atlanta, has passed away at the age of 93. Over his career, he significantly contributed to shaping the city’s urban landscape through various high-profile projects including the Georgia World Congress Center and East Lake revitalization efforts. His philanthropic efforts and community development initiatives have left a lasting impact on the city, and his legacy will be remembered by many.
Atlanta, GA – Tom Cousins, a celebrated figure in Atlanta’s real estate landscape, has passed away at the age of 93. Cousins leaves behind a substantial legacy, having significantly shaped the city’s urban framework over a career that spanned more than 40 years.
Cousins began his real estate journey in the 1960s, selling $11,000 houses alongside his father. From these modest beginnings, he grew to become a driving force in Atlanta’s development, instrumental in luring professional sports franchises such as the NBA’s Hawks and the NHL’s Flames to the city.
His remarkable achievements include donating the land for the Georgia World Congress Center and developing landmarks such as the CNN Center and the Omni Hotel. Additionally, he played a crucial role in revitalizing the East Lake neighborhood, restoring the East Lake Golf Club, and attracting significant events like the Tour Championship to Atlanta. Cousins remained active in the industry until 2002 as the chief executive officer of Cousins Properties, serving as chairman until December 2006.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 7, 1931, in Atlanta, Cousins grew up in humble circumstances as the son of an auto distributor. He graduated from the University of Georgia in 1952 with a degree in finance, ranking in the top 10% of his class. Following his service as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force, he began his professional life with Knox Homes.
Founding Cousins Properties
In 1958, he co-founded Cousins Properties with his father, concentrating on subdivisions, apartments, and shopping centers. By the 1960s, Cousins had made a name for himself as Georgia’s largest home builder and took his company public in 1962.
Major Contributions to Atlanta’s Development
Cousins initiated his first office project, the Piedmont-Cain Building, which was completed in 1965. He played a vital role in acquiring land in downtown Atlanta, which eventually contributed to the creation of “The Gulch” development area. In 1968, he and former Governor Carl Sanders became owners of the St. Louis Hawks basketball team, marking the onset of the NBA era in Atlanta.
During his tenure, Cousins also acquired the Atlanta Flames, facilitated the construction of the Omni Hotel, and later sold it to Ted Turner, transforming it into the CNN Center. In 1987, he announced plans for the 191 Peachtree Tower, which would become a distinctive part of the downtown skyline.
Bank of America Plaza and Community Development
Cousins’ most notable achievement was the development of Bank of America Plaza, the tallest building in the South, which opened in 1992. His work extended beyond commercial projects; he was deeply involved in transforming East Lake Meadows, a formerly crime-ridden housing project, into a mixed-income community complete with an elementary school and YMCA. By 2002, crime rates in East Lake saw a dramatic decline due to these extensive redevelopment efforts.
Philanthropic Efforts
In addition to his business acumen, Cousins made impactful philanthropic contributions to educational and cultural institutions. He provided significant funding to universities such as Auburn, Emory, and Georgia State, as well as to the High Museum of Art. Cousins served on the boards of several prestigious organizations, including the University of Georgia Foundation and the Georgia Research Alliance.
Family and Legacy
Tom Cousins is survived by his wife, Ann Cousins, and his two children, Grady Cousins and Lillian Giornelli, in addition to several grandchildren. His third child, Caroline, passed away in 1999. Cousins was known for his expansive network, maintaining impactful relationships with many political and business leaders throughout Atlanta.
Conclusion
Tom Cousins’ influence on the Atlanta real estate market and the city’s expansion cannot be overstated. His contributions have left a lasting imprint on Atlanta’s community, ushering in significant change and development that have positively impacted countless lives.
FAQ
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Who was Tom Cousins?
Tom Cousins was a prominent real estate developer in Atlanta known for his role in shaping the city’s urban landscape through various high-profile projects and philanthropy.
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What contributions did Cousins make to Atlanta?
Cousins was instrumental in bringing the NBA and NHL teams to Atlanta, developing the Georgia World Congress Center, and revitalizing the East Lake community.
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What is Cousins Properties?
Cousins Properties is a real estate company co-founded by Tom Cousins that specializes in commercial and residential properties, which played a key role in Atlanta’s real estate development.
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How did Cousins impact the East Lake area?
He transformed the East Lake Meadows housing project into a mixed-income community, resulting in a significant decline in crime rates and the establishment of community resources like schools and recreational facilities.
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What is Cousins’ legacy?
His legacy includes his influence on Atlanta’s development, philanthropy in education and culture, and his contributions to community revitalization.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tom Cousins, Real Estate Mogul, Passes Away at 93
Additional Resources
- WSB TV
- Wikipedia: Tom Cousins (businessman)
- AJC
- Google Search: Tom Cousins Atlanta
- Rough Draft Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tom Cousins
- WSB Radio
- Google News: Tom Cousins
- Global Golf Post
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
