Edward “Eddie” Banks Mirmelstein, a notable figure in Newport News, passed away on September 14, 2025, at the age of 81. Surrounded by his loving family at Warwick Forest’s Keswick Place, Mirmelstein’s life was marked by his deep connections within his community and his success as a businessman.
Born and raised in Newport News, Eddie was the son of the late Dr. Samuel H. Mirmelstein and Grace Banks Mirmelstein. He was a lifelong member of the Jewish community and a dedicated congregant of Rodef Sholom Temple. Mirmelstein graduated from Newport News High School in 1962, where he remained actively involved with his class reunion committee, which organized annual gatherings for many years.
Eddie faced a significant health challenge during his senior year of high school, contracting a strep infection that affected his kidneys. His resilience during this period laid the groundwork for his determination to succeed. He became part of the first graduating class of Christopher Newport College, demonstrating a commitment to education that would remain a hallmark of his life. In a poignant turn, in 2003, his son, Jay Mirmelstein, donated a kidney to Eddie, providing him with renewed health for many more years.
Over the decades, Mirmelstein established himself as a successful entrepreneur in the Newport News area. He opened Eddy’s Fashion Outlet in the 1970s, which operated until the early 1990s and included multiple locations in the region. In 1993, he founded Fun Stuff, Inc.. With the addition of his son Jay to the business in 2001, they transformed it into an industry leader in the resort and tourism market. Eddie’s approach to business was rooted in building strong relationships, not only with customers but also with employees, many of whom became lifelong friends.
His warm personality and sense of humor endeared him to all who knew him. Eddie loved sharing stories and jokes, and he took particular joy in bringing happiness to his friends and family through his generosity and infectious smile. His legacy is reflected in the countless lives he touched through both personal and professional connections.
Eddie is survived by his children, daughter Jody Mirmelstein Christensen (Buddy Christensen) and son Jay M. Mirmelstein, along with three grandsons, Cole, Blake, and Tyler Mirmelstein Christensen. He is also remembered by his sister Sandi Mirmelstein Levy (Marshall Levy), three nephews, his longtime companion Sandy Pullen and her family, and a wide network of close friends and extended family.
A graveside service is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on September 16, 2025, at the Jewish Cemetery of the Virginia Peninsula (also known as Rosenbaum Cemetery), located at 1817 Kecoughtan Rd, Hampton, VA 23661. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested contributions to the National Kidney Foundation or Rodef Sholom Temple in Newport News.
Arrangements are under the care of Peninsula Funeral Home, located at 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News, VA 23601. Eddie Mirmelstein’s memory will live on through the many lives he impacted and the love he fostered in his community.