Robert Saulters, the Grand Master of the Orange Order in Ireland, is to step down after 14 years in the post.
Mr Saulters will be replaced in December. He is stepping aside following the death of his wife, Margaret.
‘He was re-elected every year. He led the Order at a time when Orange halls have been under attack,' said an Orange Order spokesman.
Mr Saulters was an unbending supporter of the loyal order's right to walk and sharply criticised the Parades Commission for blocking controversial marches.
During his tenure, Drumcree in Portadown has simmered as an unresolved issue.
The order also rejected a deal brokered at Hillsborough to try to resolve the parading impasse even though the leadership supported it.
Dozens of Orange Order halls have been attacked for sectarian reasons.
