Edwin Jay Baum

E.J. was born in Washington, D.C., to Daniel Jay Baum and Gina Ippolito Baum. A lifelong resident of Old Town Alexandria, he was preparing to move to Charlottesville after graduation to live near his father and begin work in the mental health field—a path that reflected both his academic dedication and compassion for others.

Exceptionally bright and endlessly curious, E.J. was set to graduate from the College of William & Mary on May 16 with a major in Neuroscience and a minor in Psychology. His extensive coursework effectively spanned the full breadth of both disciplines, showcasing his interest in exploring the intricacies of the human mind.

His academic journey began at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland, where his intellectual talents flourished, especially in Latin and the sciences. He also enjoyed playing the handbells and was an avid lacrosse player. At William & Mary, he joined the club lacrosse team, actively participating during his first year and continuing to attend practices occasionally thereafter as his health permitted. He also participated in the college's chess club and served as the head of the William & Mary Esports Wellness Advocates team.

E.J. was brilliant, kind, passionate, and practical—a young man who saw the world with both intensity and tenderness. He was deeply accepting of others, often befriending those who might have been overlooked.

Surviving Family Members:

E.J. is survived by his father, Daniel Jay Baum; his mother, Gina Ippolito Baum; and his stepmother, Carmel Greer. He leaves behind his cherished younger brother, Nathaniel “Nate” Jay Baum, whom E.J. cared for with classic big-brother affection and teasing; his younger stepbrother, Luca Bonfigli; and his adored younger sister, Grace Greer Baum.

He is also survived by his grandmothers, Sue Schaefer Baum and Joyce Jolly, whose support profoundly shaped his life; his grandfather, Dr. Michael Ippolito, and his wife, Elaine Macchio, with whom he shared a close bond; his grandfather, Jim Jolly, with whom he had a relationship marked by mutual respect; his aunt, Karey Baum; his great-aunt, Ginzy Schaefer, whose steadfast encouragement greatly enriched his educational journey; his step-aunt, Linda Jolly; and numerous extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather and namesake, Edwin Jay Baum, of Creve Coeur, Missouri.

A Memorial Service for friends and family will be held at St. Paul's Episcopal Church, where E.J. attended preschool and first learned his ABCs, located at 228 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314, on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., followed by a private Jewish burial.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor EJ’s memory to consider supporting a student-led initiative to create a special space at the College of William & Mary in his name. This endeavor, initiated by his friends and classmates, celebrates EJ’s brilliant mind and beautiful soul. Contributions and more information are available at:

www.gofundme.com/f/a-space-for-ej-honoring-a-brilliant-mind-and-beautiful-soul

The family wishes to thank E.J.’s doctor, Dr. David Hamilton, for his dedicated and compassionate care, and Dr. Christy Porter, E.J.'s academic advisor, for her loyal guidance and strong advocacy.

E.J. will be remembered for his sharp intellect, passionate curiosity, and deeply caring heart. His family treasures his memory, ensuring that his legacy endures through the love and stories they share. May his memory be a blessing.