Past Grand High Priests of our District
We are immensely pleased to count Most Excellent Companions Ryan W. Adams, R. Keith O'Dell, and Jean Justus among the distinguished members of our district, and to acknowledge R. Joseph Shilling, who serves as Grand Scribe. Ryan W. Adams also serves the Grand Chapter as Grand Treasurer.
Right Excellent Companion Terrence “Terry” H. Alexander
December 7, 1952 — October 29, 2025
Deputy District Grand High Priest
We honor the memory of Right Excellent Companion Terry Alexander, who faithfully served as Deputy District Grand High Priest of the 5th Capitular District. His dedication to Royal Arch Masonry and his service to the Companions of our District will not be forgotten.
A lifelong educator and devoted Mason, Terry's passion for teaching and nurturing others left a lasting impact on countless lives. He proudly served as Past Master of Highland #38 F&AM and Thrice Potent Master of Gibulum Lodge of Perfection in the Valley of Cincinnati. He was an active member of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite, the York Rite, and the Red Cross of Constantine, where his wisdom, leadership, kindness, and integrity were highly respected.
He is survived by his beloved wife Susan, his children, grandchildren, brothers, and a host of friends and family who will carry on his legacy.
“He has finished his labor and his memory lives on in our hearts.”View Full Obituary (opens in new tab)
How to Join
You must first be a member of a ‘Blue Lodge’. If you are not already a Freemason, visit the Grand Lodge of Ohio's website (opens in new tab) to find out more.
If you are a Freemason, visit your local Chapter to petition. To find your local chapter, see our district chapters or visit the Grand Chapter website (opens in new tab).
What is Royal Arch Masonry?
Royal Arch Masonry is considered the capstone to your Masonic journey. It is deemed the “Supreme Degree” and the completion of the Master Mason degree. But why?
As a Master Mason, due to the untimely death of our Grand Master Hiram Abiff, you are presented with substituted secrets. The Temple is incomplete. The story and journey itself has not reached its conclusion, leaving the Master Mason with unresolved questions.
In the Royal Arch capitular system, the Mark Master Mason degree completes the Fellowcraft degree, while the Most Excellent Master concludes the Craft symbolism with a ceremony of dedication. Yet, it prompts the question: “what's next?”
The answer lies in the Holy Royal Arch of Jerusalem, where the candidate is presented with rich, symbolic teachings steeped in ancient knowledge. The journey leads to a Great Discovery. Brothers become Companions—a deeper title reflecting a shared, toilsome, yet rewarding experience.
So why Royal Arch Masonry? That's for you to discover—but we can tell you, no Master Mason has ever regretted it.