MARTINS FERRY — Unified Bank Senior IT Administrator John Bailey has been elected and installed as Grand Patriarch of the Grand Encampment of West Virginia, the highest elected leadership position within the Encampment branch of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows in the state.

Bailey, who has worked for Unified Bank for 21 years, began his term as Grand Patriarch on June 20. He will serve through June 19, 2027.

The Independent Order of Odd Fellows is a worldwide fraternal organization dedicated to helping others through its mission to “visit the sick, relieve the distressed, bury the dead, and educate the orphan.” Founded on the principles of Friendship, Love and Truth, the organization supports charitable, educational and community service efforts throughout the United States and around the world.

Within the Odd Fellows, the Encampment branch is an advanced degree branch of the organization, and the Grand Patriarch serves as its top elected officer at the state level. In the role, Bailey will oversee Encampments throughout West Virginia, provide leadership and guidance to members, support the organization’s educational and charitable initiatives and help resolve issues within the jurisdiction.

Bailey joined the Odd Fellows in 2017 and became a member of the Encampment branch in 2019. Since then, he has been active in the organization’s charitable projects and community outreach efforts.

“Friends encouraged me to join the Odd Fellows, but it was the work we do to help others that kept me involved,” Bailey said. “Whether supporting educational opportunities, funding research, or raising money for causes that improve lives, the organization provides meaningful ways to serve our communities.”

One of Bailey’s primary responsibilities as Grand Patriarch will be promoting and supporting Camp Kno-Koma, a West Virginia summer camp serving children with diabetes.

The Grand Encampment and its subordinate encampments have supported the camp since 1994, raising approximately $300,000 through fundraising efforts. Bailey said continued support of Camp Kno-Koma will be a major focus of his term.

In addition to statewide fundraising initiatives, Bailey and fellow Odd Fellows members participate in community events, support local educational programs and contribute to charitable causes throughout the Ohio Valley and West Virginia.

“John’s appointment as Grand Patriarch is a reflection of his commitment to service, leadership and helping others,” said Unified Bank Chairman, President and CEO Scott Everson. “For more than two decades, John has been a valued member of the Unified Bank family. We are proud to see him recognized with this prestigious leadership role and know he will serve the organization and the people of West Virginia with the same dedication he brings to Unified every day.”

The Odd Fellows have approximately 27,000 members across the United States, with additional membership throughout Europe and Asia. The organization continues its mission of serving communities through charitable works, educational support and community engagement.

Unified Bank officials congratulated Bailey on the achievement and wished him success during his term as Grand Patriarch.