Helen Marion Hines Solbert

Helen Marion Hines Solbert, known as Marion, a dedicated Special Education Teacher and beloved member of her family and community, passed away peacefully at her summer home in the beautiful mountains of Asheville, NC, on Monday, October 27, 2025. Born on December 10, 1944, in Hingham, MA, Marion's warmth and laughter left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

Marion earned her Masters in Special Education from Simmons University in Boston, Massachusetts, where she began her lifelong career working with children who needed her guidance and support. Her engaging spirit shone brightly not only in her professional life but also in her personal encounters, where her genuine curiosity about others' lives endeared her to all. Marion loved to host dinner parties, creating warm gatherings filled with joy and laughter, making every guest feel welcomed and cherished.

Throughout her life, Marion savored every moment of her surroundings. She and her longtime partner, Radne Bryant, shared countless summer adventures in the mountains of Western North Carolina, where they enjoyed the natural beauty around them, as well as winters spent basking in the sunshine and tranquility of Vieques, Puerto Rico. Marion loved the Caribbean seas, and her passion for the outdoors and travel inspired many to appreciate the world around them.

A woman of great compassion, Marion dedicated extensive time to volunteering, actively engaging with animal protection groups, and lending her support to immigrant adoption initiatives. Her zest for life was reflected in her love for food, drink, and meaningful experiences, as she faced life head-on, gathering memories and stories that she cherished deeply.

Marion is survived by her longtime partner, Radne Bryant and her beloved children: Shayan Samsam and partner Michele, Kevan Samsam and wife Melinda, and Victoria Solbert-McDonald and husband Sean. She was a loving grandmother to Rania Samsam, Soraya Samsam, Riordan Solbert-McDonald, Larkin Solbert-McDonald, and Ailish Solbert-McDonald, who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

She is also survived by her siblings: Margaret Elizabeth "Peggy" Hines, Charles "Michael" Hines and wife Candis, Linda Ann Zuniga, John Atchison Hines and wife Christine, and Robert Christopher Hines and wife Diane. Marion was treasured by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Marion is preceded in death by her husband, Alan Goodrich Kirk Solbert, who left this world in 2006, and her parents, Colonel Charles Boes Hines and Margaret Betty White. Her legacy of kindness, love, and unwavering support will continue to blossom within the hearts of those she touched throughout her journey. Marion's indomitable spirit and zest for life remind us to treasure every moment and the people we hold dear.

A service to celebrate Marion's life will be held at the end of March, 2026, in Vieques Puerto Rico. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the World Wildlife Fund in Marion's honor, adopt a dog, or donate to your local animal shelter.

Anders-Rice Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Marion's family.