The skyline of Atlanta, a testament to the impact of Tom Cousins on urban development.
Atlanta, Georgia, July 30, 2025
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.
Tom Cousins, a prominent figure in Atlanta’s real estate development and community revitalization, passed away at the age of 93. His extensive career, spanning over four decades, profoundly shaped the landscape of Atlanta and its surrounding areas.
Born on December 7, 1931, in Atlanta, Cousins grew up in a modest household. His family moved frequently due to his father’s work as an auto distributor. During his youth, he worked various jobs, such as mowing lawns and delivering newspapers, to support himself.
He attended grade school in Decatur and Rome, graduating from Darlington School in 1948. At age 16, he enrolled at the University of Georgia, earning a finance degree in the top 10% of his class. After graduation, he served as a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Air Force.
In the late 1950s, Cousins began his real estate career with Knox Homes in Thomson, Georgia, quickly establishing himself as a top salesman. He co-founded Cousins Properties in 1958 with his father, focusing on subdivisions, apartments, and shopping centers.
By the 1960s, Cousins became Georgia’s largest home builder and took his company public in 1962. His first significant office project was the Piedmont-Cain Building, completed in Atlanta in 1965.
Beginning in 1966, he purchased land in downtown Atlanta, including areas that would become The Gulch and sites for the Five Points MARTA station, demonstrating his commitment to urban development.
Cousins’ investments extended into sports. In 1968, he bought the St. Louis Hawks for over $2 million and relocated the team to Atlanta. He also acquired an NHL expansion franchise, naming it the Flames, and was instrumental in developing The Omni, which was originally built for these teams. The building later became the CNN Center when sold to Ted Turner in 1986.
He announced plans for the 50-story 191 Peachtree Tower in 1988 and designed the Bank of America Plaza in 1989, which stands as the tallest building in the Southeast at 1,023 feet.
Cousins played a vital role in transforming Atlanta’s East Lake neighborhood, restoring the East Lake Golf Club and helping reduce crime rates through community-focused initiatives. His work earned praise for its positive impact on local residents.
Through his foundation, Cousins supported numerous universities—including Auburn, Emory, and Georgia State—and cultural institutions like the High Museum of Art. He served on leading boards, including the University of Georgia Foundation and the Georgia Research Alliance.
He served as CEO of Cousins Properties until 2002 and remained chairman until December 2006. His leadership and investments left an indelible mark on Atlanta’s urban and cultural landscape. Cousins is survived by his wife, Ann Cousins; two children, Grady Cousins and Lillian Giornelli; several grandchildren; and a child, Caroline, who died in 1999.
Tom Cousins’ story exemplifies a trajectory from modest beginnings to a major influence in Atlanta’s development. His efforts in real estate, sports, and community revitalization have collectively shaped the city’s modern identity, leaving a legacy of both economic growth and social transformation.
Tom Cousins was a prominent Atlanta-based real estate developer, sports franchise owner, and philanthropist, known for transforming parts of Atlanta and supporting community development.
His major contributions include developing iconic Atlanta landmarks like the CNN Center and Bank of America Plaza, bringing NBA and NHL teams to Atlanta, and revitalizing the East Lake neighborhood.
He supported various universities such as Auburn, Emory, and Georgia State, as well as cultural institutions like the High Museum of Art, and engaged in community revitalization efforts, especially in East Lake.
He passed away at age 93, with his death reported in late 2023.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Major Developments | Includes CNN Center, Bank of America Plaza, and the 191 Peachtree Tower |
| Sports Franchise Ownership | Owned the St. Louis Hawks and NHL Flames, facilitating their relocation and expansion |
| Community Revitalization | Led efforts to transform the East Lake area, reducing crime and improving living conditions |
| Philanthropy | Supported universities and cultural institutions, fostering community growth |
| Legacy | Shaped Atlanta’s urban landscape and contributed significantly to its economic and social fabric |
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