By Billy Davis

Mary Nell Bright has told county supervisors she will not seek appointment to her late husband’s public office, an attorney for Mrs. Bright said Wednesday.

Supervisors have been awaiting a decision from Mrs. Bright since last week, when Sheriff Hugh “Shot” Bright was laid to rest September 29.

Batesville attorney Andy Yelton, who is overseeing the late sheriff’s estate, told The Panolian of Mrs. Bright’s decision.

A formal statement is forthcoming for publication in The Panolian, he said.

“She has not endorsed anyone,” Yelton said. “She said she’s going to leave that decision up to the Board of Supervisors.”

Appointment of a public official’s widow is a longstanding tradition, especially in Southern politics, until an election is held.

Mrs. Bright would have held office until a special election in November 2010.

Board of Supervisors president Gary Thompson also informed The Panolian of Mrs. Bright’s decision.

Thompson said he was told of her decision Wednesday when he met with Mrs. Bright and her son, John Fowler, along with Yelton.