CHESTER, S.C. - Gov. Mark Sanford appointed a retired Chester assistant fire chief to replace Chester County Coroner Watson Wright, who died last month.

Wright, 58, had been coroner for 16 years.

Terry Tinker, 58, is a veteran of two decades on the Chester County rescue squad and has previously served as a deputy coroner.

He ran unsuccessfully for coroner last year against Wright.

Tinker says he expects to be sworn in Tuesday.

Chester County coroners are paid $19,932 yearly during their four-year terms.