Melinda O’Neill Death, Obituary; Realtor at Iron Valley Real Estate of Berks and President at Empire Home Center Melinda O’Neill Passed Away Unexpectedly
Melinda O’Neill Death, Obituary; It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness that we share the passing of Melinda O’Neill, one of the beloved owners of Empire Home Center. Melinda’s legacy is one of vision, dedication, and compassion—a life devoted not only to the success of a business but also to the people and community she so deeply cared for.
A Life Dedicated to Family and Business
Melinda, alongside her husband Harry, purchased Empire Home Center from family in 2019. But her impact on the company stretches back many years before that milestone. Even when the store was still a part of the family business, Melinda played an essential role in sales and marketing, guiding the sales team with skill and insight. Her leadership and hands-on approach helped forge lasting relationships with customers and laid the foundation for the company’s growth.
Under her guidance, Empire Home Center evolved from a small local surplus store into a thriving retail enterprise, proudly offering brand-name products across multiple locations. Her vision, coupled with her tireless work ethic, turned challenges into opportunities and dreams into reality.
Passion for People and Homes
For Melinda, Empire Home Center was more than a business—it was a way to connect with people and help them bring their dreams to life. She believed every home should reflect love and comfort, and she poured her energy into helping customers create the spaces they envisioned. Those who met her were often struck by her warmth and sincerity; to Melinda, customers were never just transactions—they were part of the family.
A Legacy of Leadership and Generosity
Melinda’s colleagues and employees describe her as a leader who inspired by example. She balanced professionalism with kindness, always taking time to listen, mentor, and uplift others. Beyond her role at Empire Home Center, she was a beacon of generosity in the community, extending her compassion wherever it was needed.
Her loss will be deeply felt by family, friends, employees, and the countless customers whose lives she touched.
Services to Honor Melinda’s Life
To honor her memory and celebrate her extraordinary life, the following arrangements have been made:
Viewing
📍 Kuhn Funeral Home
📅 Friday, September 5, 2025
⏰ 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Funeral Mass
📍 Sacred Heart Church, West Reading
📅 Saturday, September 6, 2025
⏰ 10:00 a.m.
Reception & Celebration of Life
📍 Empire Home Center
Following the service until 5:00 p.m.
A Lasting Impact
Though Melinda’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void, her spirit and vision will continue to live on in the heart of Empire Home Center, in the homes she helped build, and in the lives of those she inspired. Her legacy is one of love, leadership, and community, and her memory will forever remain a blessing.
May she rest in eternal peace, and may those who loved her find comfort in the profound impact she made during her lifetime.
