Longtime Chatham coroner replaced following resignation

Chatham County’s longtime coroner Dr. James C. Metts Jr. has been replaced after submitting his resignation.
Metts, who is in his early eighties, cited his age and other personal matters as reasons for leaving the position he has held for about 40 years in the resignation letter he submitted late Friday afternoon, said County Attorney Jon Hart.
Probate Court Judge Harris Lewis has since appointed Dr. William Wessinger, formerly Memorial Health vice president for medical affairs, as Metts’ replacement.
Metts resignation comes only one month after being reelected with no opposition in November.
Hart said Wessinger will remain coroner until the next general election is held.