Glenn Thrift founded Thrift Development in 1994 with his son, Gary. A native of Oconee County, Glenn was born in Long Creek to Julius B. Thrift and Maude Hamby Thrift in 1932. As one of nine, Glenn came from a humble beginning, but also came from a hard-working family. From an early age he learned to work with his hands and to be dedicated to his trade. His parents always taught him to keep a strong faith in God and to work diligently. The values instilled in him by his parents stayed with him throughout his life.

Glenn was a partner of Thrift Brothers Inc., since the 1950’s. With Thrift Brothers, Glenn and his brothers got their start working in the sawmill and logging industry and eventually grew to building government roads. In the 1960’s, Thrift Brothers began building state DOT roads. Thanks to their hard work and unmatched dedication, Thrift Brothers grew their business to be one of the largest SC DOT contractors in the mid-80s.

 In 1994, Glenn and his son Gary formed Thrift Development. Glenn continued working as the President of Thrift Development until his death in July 2009.

A beloved husband, father and Papa, he was a faithful member of Westminster Baptist Church where he served as a deacon and member of the Blue Ridge Sunday School Class. He spent much of his life as a highway contractor and is responsible for building many of the roads in the upstate of South Carolina.

He also owned and operated Tri-County Ace Hardware stores which he helped grow to six stores across the upstate. Glenn was a longtime member of Oconee Cattleman’s Association and enjoyed many hours tending his cattle and farmlands.

Glenn founded his company as a family business with family values. He instilled into his children values of honesty, integrity and faithfulness. Those values continue to be the guiding principles of Thrift Development today.