Norfolk – Edward Legum, 97, of Norfolk, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Norfolk and raised in Berkley, Eddie was the son of the late A.J. Legum and Bessie Padrasic Legum. He graduated from Maury High School and attended the Norfolk Division of William and Mary (now ODU). He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ruth Radin Legum; his parents, and his siblings, Edith Legum Laderberg, Alfred Legum, Howard Legum, Herbert Legum, and Suzanne Legum Barr.
He is survived by his daughters, Blaine Levenson (Stephen), Jonnice Berns (Adam), and Radine Legum; his grandchildren, Brooke Levenson (Michael Blum) and Brent Levenson (Deena Zeltser); his great-grandchildren, Emet and Mollie Blum and Eli and Cece Levenson. He is also survived by his brother, Stephen Legum (Carol Sue); and his sister-in-law, Shirley Legum; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
Following his family’s footsteps into the furniture business, Eddie established the Edward Legum Furniture Company, Inc., that had locations in Norfolk, Hampton, and Virginia Beach. For more than 50 years, he was involved in all aspects of the furniture business, including retail sales and furniture rental. He was active in the Furniture Rental Association of America and served as its president for several years.
Eddie enjoyed sports of all kinds, as a player and a spectator. He was an avid tennis player who played regularly into his nineties. He and Ruthie were Virginia Squires season ticket holders in both Norfolk and Hampton, as well as having season tickets for the ODU Lady Monarchs and the Monarch football team.
Eddie cared deeply about the people in his life – his family, friends, employees, and community. He assisted numerous causes with singular determination and quiet philanthropy. He was dedicated to honoring the legacy of the historic Jewish community in Berkley and was responsible for the Mikro Kodesh Cemetery there for many years.
Above all else, his wife and children and their families were the center of Eddie’s life. He shared a wonderful 73-year marriage with Ruthie, and together they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, hospitality, and love. They treasured their many years together, building traditions and memories that remain a lasting part of their family’s life.
Eddie took immense pride in his daughters and their achievements. He cultivated their sense of self-reliance by teaching each of them practical skills that would serve them well throughout their lives. He cherished time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who adored him beyond measure. He celebrated their accomplishments and milestones while sharing his wisdom, kindness, and life lessons, always imparted with his unique sense of humor. It will be hard to fill his very big shoes (size 14).
A graveside funeral service was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Ohef Sholom Temple Radin Archives Fund, the ODU Center for Restorative Therapies, or a charity of the donor’s choice.