OUR TEAM

Glenn Katz
Owner & President
Glenn brings over 30 years of senior-level management experience to his role as Owner and President of Dean Russell Custom Homes, backed by a deep and diverse background in construction, business operations, legal affairs, and risk management. A graduate of Tulane University with a bachelor’s degree in Greek history, Glenn went on to earn his Juris Doctorate from Brooklyn Law School, where he focused on real estate law. His early career included high-level roles at prominent organizations such as A&O Shearman, CVS, CSX Transportation, BAE Systems and Safariland, where he honed his expertise in real estate & corporate law and executive leadership. After 30 years in the corporate world, Glenn shifted his professional focus to construction, purchasing and renovating multifamily properties in the Jacksonville area. It was during the hands-on renovation of his first property that he discovered a deep passion for construction, leading him to earn his Certified Residential Contractor license (CRC1333759). Glenn personally managed the renovation of his other multifamily properties and the homes of people that, through word of mouth, heard about the quality of his work. The valuable field experience he gained through those years now drives the vision and operations of Dean Russell Custom Homes. Today, Glenn combines his extensive hands-on construction experience, executive leadership, and legal insight to guide the company with integrity and innovation. His strategic mindset and commitment to excellence inspires the entire team. Outside the office, Glenn enjoys quality time with his wife and two adult children, riding his motorcycle, working out and playing tennis.

Casey
Project Manager
With five years of hands-on experience in multifamily acquisition and renovation, Casey brings energy, precision, and a true passion for turning visions into reality as a Project Manager at Dean Russell Custom Homes. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of San Diego and began her career in the fast-paced world of professional sports with the Miami HEAT. It was there that Casey developed key skills in leadership, organization, and high-pressure decision-making—skills that seamlessly translated into her next chapter in construction. Five years ago, Casey made the leap into the custom-building industry and never looked back. Since then, she has earned her Florida Certified Residential Contractor’s License and has been fully immersed in managing every phase of custom home construction and renovation. From project planning and budgeting to client communication and on-site execution, Casey is known for her attention to detail, clear communication, and commitment to delivering exceptional results. Outside of work, Casey enjoys an active lifestyle that includes golfing, motorcycle rides, and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Terry
Lead Framing Forman
With over 50 years of experience in the framing and construction industry, Terry brings unmatched expertise, dedication, and craftsmanship to every project. He has been an integral part of Dean Russell Custom Homes for the past 39 years, starting his journey with the company as a carpenter. Under the mentorship of founder Dean Russell and driven by a relentless pursuit of knowledge, Terry steadily advanced through the ranks to become the company’s Lead Framing Foreman. His deep understanding of structural framing, attention to detail, and leadership on the job site have made him a cornerstone of the team and a trusted guide for newer generations of builders. Terry's commitment to quality and excellence continues to shape the standards at Dean Russell Custom Homes, making him an invaluable asset to the company and its legacy of custom craftsmanship. Outside of work, Terry is a family man through and through and loves spending time with his wife of 45 years, 3 children, 4 grandchildren and last but not least his great granddaughter.

Kelly
Project Manager
With over 50 years of experience in the construction industry, 45 of those as a Project Manager, Kelly brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and professionalism to every project at Dean Russell Custom Homes. A graduate of Colorado State University, Kelly holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management and has built an impressive career across multiple states. Throughout his decades in the field, Kelly has held general contracting licenses in California, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Florida. He also holds a home inspector’s license and a real estate sales license, further showcasing his comprehensive understanding of the industry from the ground up. Kelly’s greatest strengths lie in his extensive construction knowledge, exceptional project management skills, and his ability to communicate clearly and effectively with clients—ensuring a smooth, transparent building process from start to finish. Outside of work, Kelly enjoys spending time with his family, visiting his father in Arizona, tackling home improvement projects, and cheering on his favorite NFL team, the Denver Broncos.

Lora
Operations Manager
A Jacksonville native with over 25 years of experience in real estate and construction, Lora Freedman brings a deep-rooted passion for helping people turn their dream homes into reality. A graduate of the University of North Florida, Lora combines local knowledge, industry expertise, and a heart for service in her role as Operations Manager. Her dedication to excellence and personal approach to each project have earned her a reputation for reliability and results. Outside of work, Lora finds joy in gardening, painting, shopping, and supporting local art. She's also deeply committed to giving back through charities focused on homelessness and animal welfare. With a love for both people and places, Lora is proud to play a key role in building homes—and stronger communities—through every project she touches.

Kim
Project Manager
Kim joined Dean Russell Custom Homes in 2004, bringing with him decades of experience in the homebuilding industry. He holds a Liberal Arts degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and a Master’s degree in Music and Art from the University of Maryland, College Park. Throughout his career, Kim has contributed to a wide range of projects, including speculative homes, land acquisitions, plan design, and subdivision development. He also served as General Manager of a custom homebuilding company in Washington, D.C. for 15 years. Kim is a licensed real estate professional and a retired U.S. Army Reserve veteran, having served for 22 years in Washington, D.C. Kim is passionate about helping clients bring their unique architectural visions to life. He works closely with architects and engineers to create personalized home plans that reflect each client's style while aligning with their design and budget goals. Outside of work, Kim is actively involved in his church community, where he enjoys leading Bible studies. His personal interests include collecting fine wines, traveling, and exploring haute cuisine.
ABOUT US
Timeless Homes for
Modern Living
For over 50 years, Dean Russell Custom Homes has been building homes that stand the test of time in quality, design, and craftsmanship. At Dean Russell Custom Homes, we believe your home should be as unique as you are. As a premier custom home builder in the Jacksonville Florida area, we specialize in turning your vision into a one-of-a-kind living space that reflects your lifestyle, taste, and needs. With decades of combined experience, our team is passionate about quality craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and lasting value.
From the initial concept to the final walk-through, we work closely with you every step of the way to ensure your home is built with precision, integrity, and care. Whether you're dreaming of a modern retreat, a timeless classic, or something completely your own, we bring your ideas to life with a seamless building experience and unmatched attention to detail.
What sets us apart is our commitment to personalized service and exceptional standards. We don’t just build houses... we build homes that tell your story.
Let’s build something extraordinary together.

OUR SERVICES
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EXPERIENCE
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ACCOUNTABILITY
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TESTIMONIALS
Client Success Stories: Hear What Our Clients Say
I highly recommend Dean Russell Construction. Dean is fantastic to work with as well as all of his subcontractors. Dean and his team provide Superior service, quality, honesty and take extra effort in everything that they do.
RL BRANDY
Jacksonville, Florida
Working with DRCH has been an amazing experience. Not only was the process smooth, but all of his subs were professional and got the job done flawlessly no matter the obstacles that were placed in front of them with a large renovation. If you need someone trustworthy and looking out for you and your home this is the company to hire! I will hire them on my next build or remodel.
KATIE BROWN
Jacksonville, Florida
Dean Russell Custom Homes is an excellent custom home builder with high attention to detail and commitment to quality. Will work with you every step of the way to build the home of your dreams.
ELISE ROSE
Jacksonville, Florida
OUR MISSION
Lets Build Something Extraordinary...Together
At Dean Russell Custom Homes, our mission is to bring our clients’ vision to life by building high-quality, custom homes that reflect their unique lifestyle, values, and dreams. With a commitment to craftsmanship, integrity, and personalized service, we strive to make the homebuilding experience seamless, transparent, and inspiring... from concept to completion.
