SPARTANBURG - Brenda Lee, the first African-American woman elected to the South Carolina Legislature is resigning. Lee will give up her District 31 seat to take a new job at the State Office of Regulatory Staff.

In a letter to House Speaker Bobby Harrell, Lee said "I have worked diligently to earn the trust afforded me by those folks in Spartanburg County who elected me. My overall service to the Legislature has been one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences of my life, and I feel as though I have served my state with honor and dignity."

Lee also wrote of her time on the Labor, Commerce and Industry Committee and her honor to be the first African-American to serve on that board.

Her fellow state lawmakers were quick to respond to Lee's resignation. "Her presence will be sorely missed," said Harrell. "Her ability to work with both sides of the aisle enabled much to be accomplished. I wish she would stay, but I understand her need to move."

Representative Doug Smith said, "Brenda was well regarded in the House. Her position on the commerce and industry committee did much to help grow Spartanburg County. She will be missed."

"It's been great working with her these past 10 years," said Senator Glenn Reese. "I hate to see her leave, but understand why."

News Channel Seven has learned of some potential candidates to replace her. Regenesis director Harold Mitchell and Attorney Michael Brown are possibilities.

The election process to replace Brenda Lee could take up to 19 weeks to complete.

Russ Bradley contributed to this story