News Summary
Mary Ellen ‘Myrt’ Edwards Power, co-founder of Williamsburg’s beloved Cheese Shop, passed away at 85. Known for her pivotal role in the shop’s success and its iconic house dressing, Myrt’s legacy lives on in the local community. Her contributions to the culinary scene and various nonprofits highlight her dedication and impact.
Williamsburg, VA – Mary Ellen “Myrt” Edwards Power, co-founder of the iconic Cheese Shop in Williamsburg, passed away at the age of 85 on June 15, 2025, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Myrt, known for her crucial role in establishing one of the region’s most beloved culinary landmarks, died almost eight years after her husband, Tom Power.
The Cheese Shop, originally opened on Prince George Street in 1973, became a favorite spot for students and locals alike, offering a variety of cheeses and gourmet sandwiches. Myrt was particularly noted for creating the shop’s legendary original house dressing, which became a signature item on their sandwiches, designed as a simple yet delicious condiment for family meals. Her first creation featured French bread, Emmentaler Alpine cheese, and German salami topped with her distinctive dressing.
In 1971, Myrt and Tom launched their first business in the Warwick Shopping Center located in Newport News, where they sold imported cheeses and wines. They made history as the first retail business in Virginia to secure an ABC license for wine sales. This entrepreneurial spirit laid the groundwork for The Cheese Shop’s later success.
Impact and Legacy
Myrt’s influence extended beyond product offerings to the way The Cheese Shop operated. As a self-taught merchandiser, she designed store fixtures according to her specifications and established employee relations practices that are still implemented at the shop nearly 54 years later. Her daughter, Mary Ellen Power Jr., described her mother as the “backbone” of the business, reflecting the pivotal role she played in its day-to-day operations.
After relocating The Cheese Shop to Duke of Gloucester Street in Merchants Square in 2003, Myrt and Tom partnered with chefs John Curtis and Marcel Desaulniers to open the Trellis Restaurant in 1980, which garnered national acclaim. They later sold their interest in the restaurant in 1994. The couple’s contributions to the culinary world earned them induction into the Specialty Food Association Hall of Fame in 2016, along with receiving the Prentis Award from the College of William & Mary in 2017 for their extraordinary community service.
Community Involvement
Myrt’s commitment to her community was evident through her support for various nonprofit organizations, including Hospice House of Williamsburg, Child Development Resources, and Dream Catchers. She and Tom Power also expanded their family’s business portfolio to include The Wine Cellar and the fine dining restaurant Fat Canary, where their son, Tom Jr., serves as the executive chef. Fat Canary has received multiple accolades since opening its doors.
Personal Life
Myrt was born on March 29, 1940, in Norfolk, Virginia, and grew up in the Colonial Place neighborhood. She attended Stuart Elementary and Norfolk Catholic High School, where she earned the title of “Most Popular.” In 1960, Myrt met Tom while he was stationed at Quantico, and they married in August 1961, eventually raising three children: Mary Ellen Jr., Cathy, and Thomas Jr.
The Powers’ mark on their community and the culinary industry is profound, with The Cheese Shop remaining a staple of Williamsburg life. A celebration of Myrt Power’s life is planned for August 4, 2025, at The Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham in Williamsburg. Contributions in her memory are encouraged to be made to local nonprofits designated by her family.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beloved Founder of The Cheese Shop Passes Away
Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Mary Ellen “Myrt” Edwards Power Obituary
- Wikipedia: Alzheimer’s Disease
- Daily Press: Co-founder of The Cheese Shop Dies
- Google Search: Cheese Shops History
- Legacy: Thomas Power Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cheese
