Estelle Gelman Passes Away

It is with great sadness that I report the recent passing of one of the most loyal and generous supporters of the Library and the University, Estelle Gelman.

Mrs. Gelman died Friday, October 23, at her home in Washington, DC.  At her side were members of her immediate family.  Funeral services were held Sunday, October 25, at the Adas Israel Congregation in Washington.

Mrs. Gelman was Trustee Emerita of George Washington University and received an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University.  Following the death in 1978 of her husband, Melvin, she established a generous endowment for the Library in his memory, after whom the Library is now named.  She faithfully continued to support the Library with continuing gifts and by her presence at numerous Gelman Library events.

Although she never attended college, several of her family are graduates of GW, including a daughter, Elise Lefkowitz, two sons-in-law, Marc Lefkowitz, and William (Billy) Miller, and two granddaughters, Charlotte (Charlie) Leftkowitz and Robin Miller Friedman.

In addition to being a kind and thoughtful person, Mrs. Gelman was a renowned philanthropist who supported numerous organizations, including the American Cancer Society (where she served as the first woman President), the Jewish Social Service Agency and the Holocaust Museum, among many others.

All of us in the Gelman Library mourn the loss of this wonderful person and extend our deepest condolences to her family.

Jack Siggins
University Librarian

Mrs. Gelman’s family selected the George Washington University’s Gelman Library as one of two designations for contributions in honor of Estelle Gelman.  To make a contribution to the Gelman Library, please click on the link below and indicate your gift is in honor of Estelle Gelman by checking the box “Other priorities” and choosing the Gelman Library System: