Din Kim

         In Loving Memory of Din “Ma Yeay” Kim

Din “Ma Yeay” Kim, 89, of Middletown, passed away in the early hours of May 19, 2025. Born on July 3, 1935 in Kandal, Cambodia, Ma Yeay escaped and survived the Khmer Rouge and immigrated to Connecticut in 1982. 

Ma Yeay peacefully left this world after a courageous two-year battle, one she faced with unmatched strength, grace, and resilience. If her body had allowed, she would still be fighting — that's just who she was: tough, spirited, and endlessly loving. Now she is no longer in pain and is reunited with her late husband, Num, whom she remained committed to for over forty years. 

Ma Yeay enjoyed the simple things in life: praying, gardening, sewing, and being surrounded by family, especially around a hot, home-cooked meal. She was not only the heart of our family — she was the light in all our lives. To know her was to feel joy, peace, and belonging. Her warmth touched everyone she met, and anyone lucky enough to cross her path carries a heartfelt memory of her kindness, humor, and radiant spirit.

A devoted member of our temple, the Cambodian Buddhist Society of Connecticut, Ma Yeay was a pillar of strength and serenity. Her presence brought joy to the monks and fellow “Yeays,” who always lit up when she was around. She embodied peace — not only through her dedication to meditation and prayer — but in the way she lived: with deep faith, boundless love, and a quiet strength that held our family together. We all know her gentle spirit — she wouldn’t hurt a fly.

Ma Yeay had a contagious laugh and a witty sense of humor that lifted spirits. She could make anyone smile, even on the hardest days. She was fun, wise, and beautifully grounded — the kind of person who made you feel better just by being near.

We will remember her as the happy, funny, loving woman she was. Her spirit, wisdom, and values instilled in us will continue to live on in all of us — in our prayers, in our laughter, and in the love we continue to share with one another, just as she taught us.

Ma Yeay is survived by her devoted daughter Sokhom Neou, her son Neang “Wayne” Neou, daughter-in-law Soportra Penn, and her siblings: Sary Ly, Samon Men, and Chantha Ly. Her memories will also be treasured by her cherished grandchildren: Katherine Thong, Charlie Thong, Billie Thong, Sara Thong, Vicky Thong, Salina Neou, Nicki Neou, Neagareach Num, Devirith Num, and Veha Num. She was also the proud great-grandmother to Destiny Thong, Makai Holley, Kylon Holley, Ayden Bowe, Savannah Thong, Lillie Thong, Josephine Thong, Charlie Thong Jr., and Samoa Thong. Yeay’s love extended far beyond her immediate family — she leaves behind a large, loving community of relatives both near and far, especially in Cambodia.

We love you always, Ma Yeay.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 24th at 10:00 am at the Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church Street, Middletown.  Family and friends may call Saturday morning before the service from 9:00 to 10:00 am at the funeral home. Cremation service to follow at Brookside Crematory, 453 Christian Lane, Berlin.  To share memories or send condolences, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.

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