Washington, DC – Members of the Hungarian American Coalition (Coalition) were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. Jeanette Gecsy Grasselli Brown on July 15, 2025. She was 96 years old.
Born in 1928 to Hungarian immigrant parents, Jeanette Gecsy (later known as Jeanette Grasselli Brown) grew up in Cleveland’s famous Buckeye Road Hungarian neighborhood where close-knit families and friends created a Hungarian American community based on industriousness, tradition and perseverance. These characteristics defined Jenny’s remarkable life of outstanding scientific achievements, civic leadership and ongoing commitment to Hungarian causes and projects.
The first person in her family to pursue formal education beyond eighth grade, Jenny received a scholarship to Ohio University, graduating with her B.S. in Chemistry in 1950. She later received her M.S. in Chemistry at Case Western University and eventually 13 honorary doctorates from around the world. She started working for Standard Oil of Ohio (SOHIO), embarking on a 38-year career that made her a pioneer in industrial spectroscopy. Her early involvement in applying infrared spectrometry—technology spun off from wartime advancements—positioned her at the vanguard of a revolution in analytical chemistry.
Jenny authored over ninety publications and nine books, was a globe-trotting lecturer, and broke ground for women in science at a time when few women held such positions. She championed policies for equal pay and work-life balance and rose through management to shape her department’s future and serve as a mentor to many. She also served on the board of six corporations.
Upon retirement in 1989, she continued to serve her community and profession in numerous capacities—Distinguished Visiting Professor at Ohio University, appointee to the Ohio Board of Regents, Vice Chair of the Governor’s Commission on Teacher Success, and board member of leading civic, arts, and science organizations throughout Cleveland. She was actively engaged as a board director for the Cleveland Hungarian Development Panel, the Cleveland Orchestra, the Cleveland Clinic and was involved in educational exchanges between Cleveland and Hungary, including providing decades of support for Hungarian students in Kolozsvar, (Cluj), Romania.
On April 25, 2018, the Hungarian American Coalition honored Dr. Jeanette Gecsy Grasselli Brown at its Annual Gala Dinner in recognition of her outstanding leadership in science, business and community service, and genuine pride in her Hungarian heritage that have strengthened Hungarian American institutions earning the admiration and gratitude of the Hungarian American community. View the video of Jenny’s remarkable achievements here.
Jenny’s husband, Glenn Brown, who passed away in 2021, was a perfect partner, her most enthusiastic supporter, and traveling companion to more than 100 countries. Jenny described their shared philosophy as follows:
“The driving force in my life has been to help others. I believe we have a responsibility to give back when we have had so much…it adds meaning to life.”
The Coalition and the Hungarian American community mourn the loss of a true Hungarian patriot, a remarkable leader, and a beloved member of our organization. A funeral and memorial service will take place at a later date.
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The Hungarian American Coalition is a nationwide non-profit organization that promotes public understanding and awareness of Hungarian American issues.