Soul of 78- Donny Glenn
Owner, Glenn Masonry
Words by Anna Duncan Owens | Image courtesy of the Glenn family
In Walker County, some houses tell stories. Through every brick and careful line of mortar, they speak of pride, perseverance, and the hands that built them.
For many years, Donny Glenn crafted those stories.
With each wall he laid, he told quiet, honest stories of hard work, family, and a man who poured his life into the masonry that still stands across the county.
Before founding Glenn Masonry in 1990, Donny had already made a name for himself professionally on Louisiana State University’s campus in the 1980s, and was known for his precision and speed. Though offered top wages to stay in Baton Rouge, Donny chose to come home to Alabama.
With help from his foster brother, Kenneth Whittemore, he launched his business and quickly paid off every tool. His work became the backbone of construction in Jasper, partnering with builders like Larry Butler, Raymond Steadman, HL Hutchison, and Michael Handley. He also formed lasting bonds with Duncan’s Supply, where loyalty and laughter came with each delivery.
“I never saw Donny without a smile on his face,” says John Duncan. “He was simply a joy to be around. Other than being the best brick mason I’ve ever known, his love for Alabama football might’ve surpassed his love for masonry.”
Mike Duncan shares, “Donny was an immaculate craftsman, hard worker, staunch Alabama football fan, always smiling, positive attitude… but most importantly, he was my friend. Every time I drive up to my house and see the red and black brick, the gray mortar, the standing soldiers, and the curved brick porch steps, I think of him. That’s a cherished memory.”
Donny’s motto was simple: “Do it like it would be done on your house.” And he lived by it. He showed up before daylight, worked with care, and made sure every job —big or small — reflected pride and heart.
His work across Walker County includes homes in Heritage Hills and The Trace and his proudest project, Collins-Burke Funeral Home. “He really showed off on that one,” says his son, Donnie. “Another favorite of his was Becky Sherer’s house with the white brick, white mortar, and dark accents.”
People waited months, sometimes even a year, to have Donny do their brickwork, desiring both the quality and character of his work.
“He was the greatest bricklayer ever to touch a brick around here,” Donnie says. “I’ll never be as good, and that’s okay. Just growing up beside a man like that was the honor of my life.”
Donny used to love the story of the Three Little Pigs. The brick house was the one that couldn’t be blown down.
“Now that he’s gone, it kind of fits,” Donnie says. “His work is still standing.”
What Donny built lives on, not just in the homes he left behind, but in the pride of his family and a community that will never forget him. 78
In Loving Memory of Donny Glenn
November 1, 1959 – April 8, 2025
Master Mason. Devoted Husband and Father. Faithful Friend.