Domenica Kling

Domenica Kling, 92, of Richmond Valley passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026_ surrounded by her

husband, the love of her life, Melvin E. Kling, Sr. and her adoring family. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, she lived a life filled with spirit, grace, and devotion, touching everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Domenica was born to Sabastiana and Antonio Valentino on March 8, 1934 in New Brighton.

Brilliant from an early age, Domenica graduated from high school at just sixteen years old after skipping two grades due to her exceptional academic abilities. While attending Curtis High School, she was a proud cheerleader and dancer. It was there that her dear friend Margaret Magliozzi (the late Charles Gargano, the late Joseph Magliozzi), introduced Domenica to her brother Melvin, beginning their lifelong love story. Eager to begin their life together, the two married after a short courtship. They built a loving family and a life grounded in devotion, partnership, and enduring love that lasted 75 years.

Together with her husband Melvin, she established and partnered in the development and growth of Kling Real Estate, where her intelligence, meticulous standards, professionalism, and remarkable people skills drove its success. Her dedication to the business never faded as she remained actively involved in the business well into her 80s.

Known for her magnetic personality and genuine warmth, Domenica was loved for her gregarious nature, sharp mind, and effortless ability to make others feel welcomed and valued.

Her Catholic faith instilled in her a lifelong devotion to the Blessed Mother. She had a gift for bringing people together, particularly around the table. She was an exceptional cook, renowned for her ability to whip up a chef quality meal in just minutes. Her sauce was a staple and the cornerstone of every family dinner or holiday.

Her home was always filled with music. Her children fondly remember her singing throughout the house and creating a home alive with song and joy. She shared her deep love of music with her children, each of whom learned to play various instruments, and passed that love down to the grandchildren and great grandchildren. One of her greatest legacies is the love and passion for music she infused throughout the entire family.

Domenica also cherished traveling the world, with Italy holding a special place in her heart. She embraced travel as she embraced all things in life-with enthusiasm, elegance, curiosity, and joy, inspiring those around her to do the same.

Above all, she will be remembered for the love she gave so freely - to her children, Anthony (MaryJo), Debra Feaser(Michael), Melvin, and Diane Gerardi (the late Salvatore), her 11 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, her sisters, Patricia (the late Joseph) Luberto and Rosemarie (the late Matthew) Carrara with whom she shared a lifelong bond and best friendship, her large, loving extended family, friends, and community. Her spirit, kindness, and unforgettable presence will live on in the countless lives she touched.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.