Rhea Hudson Sheldon was officially sworn in as 10th Chancery District Judge on December 29.

The district covers Pearl River, Lamar, Forrest, Marion and Perry counties.

Sheldon was appointed to the bench in February 2016, by Governor Phil Bryant to fulfill the unexpired term of Dawn Beam, who was appointed as Associate Justice of Supreme Court.

She ran unopposed for the seat during a special election held in November of this year.

Sheldon said she is honored to be able to serve the citizens of the 10th Chancery District and continue the work she started back in 2016.

At the ceremony held at the 15th Circuit Court courtroom in Poplarville, Pearl River County Court Judge Richelle Lumpkin alongside 15th Circuit Court Judge Claiborne McDonald, swore Sheldon in.

Lumpkin said she was honored to have the opportunity to swear in not only her colleague, but also a very dear friend.

“I feel this has to be one of the best acts by Governor Bryant and everyone here is very proud that she is re-elected to serve,” Lumpkin said.

McDonald said the oath is an important part of the process by allowing the public to know who will serve them during the current term.

Sheldon grew up in Lamar County and was a school teacher prior to attending law school. She was practicing law when she was appointed in 2016.