Melinda Faye O'Neill

Melinda O'Neill, 49, of Leesport, PA, passed away peacefully on September 02, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, after a courageous ten-year battle with breast cancer. Born on September 10, 1975, in Temple, PA.

Melinda's life was defined by unstoppable determination, passion, and a deep love for her family and community.

She was the beloved wife of Harry O'Neill, devoted mother to her sons James, Jacob, and Max, and proud stepmother to Joe and Nick. She was the cherished daughter of Mary Toni Spadafora and David Weidner, stepdaughter of Claire Guyot, and the loving sister of Stella, Jerry, Stephen, Jed, John, and Luke. Her nieces, Gabriella and Victoria, and nephews, Zachary, Nathaniel, Sam, and Leo, will forever hold her memory close. Melinda's life was blessed with an abundance of friends and family who will remember her fondly and keep her passion alive.

Melinda's leadership and determination were evident early on, serving as Senior Class President at Central Catholic High School. She earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management from La Salle University and quickly distinguished herself in the professional world, becoming a top salesperson at ADP. Her career evolved into the real estate industry, where she thrived as both a successful agent and co-owner of Empire Home Center with her husband. She later realized a long-held dream by opening the Empire Design Center on Penn Avenue in West Reading.

Melinda had a true passion for homes and real estate, dedicating herself to helping others find their dream homes. Known for her warmth and generosity, she built lasting relationships with clients by connecting on a personal level. Her creativity, tireless work ethic, and entrepreneurial spirit left a lasting impression on colleagues, clients, and friends alike.

Melinda had a profound appreciation for the outdoors, physical activity, and athletics of all kinds. She found joy in hiking with friends and family—whether on a leisurely walk through the park or a challenging trek in the Rocky Mountains. Her passion for nature and fitness motivated her to complete two marathons alongside her husband. This enthusiasm was deeply instilled in her children, whom she actively supported in every sport they pursued, from cheering on the sidelines to dedicating countless hours to practice sessions. Her commitment extended beyond her family, as she became a key sponsor of the Berks County Rugby Football Club, demonstrating her dedication to fostering athletic opportunities in her community. Melinda's vibrant spirit and unwavering support left a lasting impact on both her family and the community.

Melinda's vibrant personality was reflected in her love for music, particularly as a devoted fan of the Grateful Dead. Her connection to the band began early—she attended her first concert at the Tower Theater on Halloween night in 1975, at just one month old. Nearly five decades later, she continued to embrace that passion, attending her final show at the Sphere in Las Vegas on August 3, 2024.

Above all, Melinda's greatest joy was being a mother. She poured her heart into raising her boys, instilling in them the same values of hard work, perseverance, and passion that defined her own life. She often shared her personal motto: "With hard work, dedication, and passion for life, you can achieve anything."

A viewing will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., West Reading. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, West Reading. Burial will be private at Forest Hills Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in her memory to Berks Catholic High School, Attn: Development Office, 955 E. Wyomissing Blvd., Reading, PA 19611. Condolences may be expressed at kuhnfuneralhomes.com.