(AP) - Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval is ordering flags flown half-staff throughout the state to mourn the death of Fifth Judicial District Court Judge John Davis.
Sandoval issued a statement Thursday praising Davis's service and commitment during 20 years as judge in the sprawling district covering rural Nye, Esmeralda and Mineral counties.
Davis died Wednesday night in Tonopah at age 76.
Sandoval says flags will fly at half-staff until sunset today.
The Nevada Supreme Court announced Davis's death with Chief Justice Michael Douglas saying Davis served the legal system with distinction and honor.
Douglas says Davis's hard work and thoughtfulness will be missed.
Court spokesman Bill Gang says funeral services will be private.
The court vacancy will be filled following interviews by the Nevada Commission on Judicial Selection.
