NGU News


NGU Mourns Passing of Longtime Influential Educator

Posted on: January 23, 2025
By Billy Cannada, billy.cannada@ngu.edu

A passionate teacher, devoted mother, and loving grandmother. 

That’s the way Dr. Mary Ann Solesbee will be remembered. 

The first chair of North Greenville University’s Department of Education, Solesbee passed away on Friday, January 10 at the age of 75. Solesbee was serving as a professor in NGU’s Doctor of Education program, instructing future educators to foster a love of learning in their own students.  

“So many of us adored her humble spirit and her passion for educators at all levels,” said NGU President Dr. Gene C. Fant, Jr. “Dr. Solesbee was committed to developing transformational leaders for church and society. Her enthusiasm and care for others will be deeply missed.”  

Solesbee earned her Ph.D. from the University of South Carolina and dedicated her career to the field of education. She taught elementary school for many years in South Carolina, inspiring students with her love for history and storytelling.  

“Dr. Mary Ann Solesbee greeted everyone with a warm smile and a vibrant energy for life,” said Dr. Constance Wright, Dean of NGU’s College of Education. “Her passion for learning and education inspired those around her, and as the founding dean of the College of Education, she laid the foundation for an education program that will continue shaping the lives of future educators for years to come. We are grateful for her visionary leadership and countless contributions, but even more so for the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed.” 

Solesbee was the author of the Sal and Amanda book series, which uses historical fiction to teach children about South Carolina’s rich history. In addition, she authored “South Carolina Under Our Feet,” a first grade Social Studies textbook that is used by tens of thousands of students across the state.  

Solesbee created and directed a Teaching American History Grant for eight school districts in the Upstate and provided in-service teacher education both in the U.S. and abroad. She also played a pivotal role in the establishment of the South Carolina Governor’s School for Agriculture at John de la Howe. 

“She was always pleasant and went out of her way to love on us and all those in education,” recalled Dr. Brian Spearman, who studied under Solesbee’s leadership and serves as a member of NGU’s Board of Trustees. “She would let us come talk to her about anything and she always had a smile on her face. She will be missed.” 

Solesbee’s family said she will be remembered for her unwavering faith in Jesus, her extraordinary accomplishments, her love for her family, and her dedication to nurturing the next generation of learners.  

Memorial services were held on Thursday, January 16 at Lyman Methodist Church. Donations celebrating Dr. Solesbee can be made to The Children’s Museum of the Upstate (300 College St. Greenville, SC 29601) in support of the museum’s Book Nooks in Greenville and Spartanburg.  

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