The community of Reading, Pennsylvania, is mourning the sudden passing of Melinda O’Neill, a beloved business leader, realtor, and president of Empire Home Center. Known for her vision, warmth, and dedication, Melinda left an indelible mark not only on the company she helped build but also on the many lives she touched through her work and personal relationships.
Melinda, together with her husband Harry, purchased Empire Home Center in 2019, continuing the family’s legacy while transforming the business into a thriving retail destination. Long before officially becoming an owner, Melinda was a driving force within the company. She led the sales team with enthusiasm and skill, building strong customer relationships and guiding the business with a clear sense of purpose.
Under her leadership, Empire Home Center evolved from a local surplus store into a dynamic, multi-location retailer offering top-name products for every home. Her ability to blend professional expertise with genuine care for people set her apart. Customers often remembered her not only for her knowledge and professionalism but also for her kindness, generosity, and ability to connect on a personal level.
Beyond her work, Melinda was deeply committed to her family and community. She embodied the values of service and hospitality, making those around her feel welcomed, supported, and valued. Friends and colleagues describe her as a woman of vision and compassion, someone whose leadership was defined by both strength and heart.
Her passing is a profound loss for Empire Home Center, which now reflects on the countless ways she helped shape the company’s identity and future. In a heartfelt message, the business shared that Melinda’s legacy will live on through the growth, relationships, and culture of care she fostered within the organization.
Melinda’s family, friends, and the broader Reading community will gather to honor her life and legacy in the coming days. A viewing will be held at Kuhn Funeral Home on Friday, September 5, from 5–8 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Sacred Heart Church in West Reading on Saturday, September 6, at 10 a.m. Following the service, loved ones and colleagues are invited to a reception and celebration of life at Fishpond West, 200 Swiftwater Lane, Leesport, until 5 p.m.
As the community mourns, all are asked to keep Harry O’Neill and the O’Neill family in their thoughts and prayers during this time of sorrow. While her loss is deeply felt, Melinda will be remembered for her vision, her warmth, and her steadfast dedication to helping others create the homes and lives of their dreams.