Edward “Eddie” Banks Mirmelstein, aged 81, passed away on Sunday, September 14, 2025, at Warwick Forest’s Keswick Place in Newport News, surrounded by family. A lifelong resident of Newport News, Eddie was deeply rooted in his community and cherished his connections with family and friends.
Born to the late Dr. Samuel H. Mirmelstein and Grace Banks Mirmelstein, Eddie took pride in being an active member of the Newport News Jewish community. He was a longstanding congregant of Rodef Sholom Temple, where his commitment to community service was evident. Eddie graduated from Newport News High School in 1962, maintaining strong ties with his classmates through years of organized reunions.
Eddie’s resilience was tested during his senior year of high school when he contracted a strep infection that affected his kidneys. Despite this challenge, he overcame the health scare and became a proud member of the first graduating class of Christopher Newport College. In a remarkable act of love, Eddie’s son, Jay, donated a kidney to him in 2003, allowing Eddie to enjoy many more years of life.
Throughout his adult life, Eddie was a successful entrepreneur. He founded Eddy’s Fashion Outlet in the 1970s, which thrived until the early 1990s with several locations in the Hampton and Newport News areas. In 1993, he launched Fun Stuff, Inc., which became a leader in the resort and tourism industry after Jay joined the business in 2001. Eddie’s business philosophy centered on building strong relationships with customers and employees, many of whom became lifelong friends.
Eddie was known for his generous spirit and infectious humor. He loved sharing stories and jokes, bringing joy to those around him. His big smile and warm personality made him a beloved figure in his community.
His legacy will be cherished by his children, daughter Jody Mirmelstein Christensen and son Jay M. Mirmelstein, as well as his three grandsons, Cole, Blake, and Tyler Mirmelstein Christensen. He is also remembered by his sister, Sandi Mirmelstein Levy, and her family, along with his companion, Sandy Pullen, and many close friends.
A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Jewish Cemetery of the Virginia Peninsula, also known as Rosenbaum Cemetery, located at 1817 Kecoughtan Road, Hampton, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions to the National Kidney Foundation or Rodef Sholom Temple in Newport News, Virginia.
Arrangements are being handled by Peninsula Funeral Home, situated at 11144 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, Virginia. Eddie Mirmelstein’s life was a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship.
