Queens Tribune

“Uncle” Jimmy Eng, 87, the owner and happy face behind the iconic King Yum Restaurant on 181st Street and Union Turnpike, died New Years Eve on his way to host his restaurant’s party.

James Eng, born Shoong K. Ng, was known throughout the city for his personality and smile, greeting his customers individually, telling jokes, singing songs and making dining at King Yum’s more than a meal – it was an experience.

In 2005 the Queens Tribune published a special edition on business success stories, asking people how they got to where they were and what advice they could pass on to our readers. This was Eng’s response:

What’s the single most important factor to success?
Treating your customers properly, having an appreciation for them, and giving them what they want. Business is about relationships. Many of my friends have moved to Florida, but when they’re in the area, they still come to see me.

What do you look for in an employee?
I don’t get involved with that anymore, but if they are good to me than I’ll be good to them. One hand washes the other.

What’s the best way to save money?

I don’t know.

What’s the best way to spend money?

Spending it on a good product.

What’s your greatest pleasure in life?

Singing. I’ve sung all over the country, including Atlantic City. The mayor of Chinatown recently asked me to come sing at a fundraiser he was holding. I sang five songs for him.

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning?

I thank God that I’m able to get up out of bed.
How do you deal with stress?

I never have stress. There is no use to worrying.
What one lesson do you hope to pass to your children?
Be good to people and work hard. It is also important to be friendly. I don’t have one enemy in the whole world. My philosophy is that a “good deal is a good deal only if everyone wins.”

How do you bounce back from adversity?
You have to accept whatever life offers.
What’s your favorite thing about Queens?
My house. At one time, there were 12 people living in it, but now they are all older and have moved on.

And so has he. We will miss you “Uncle” Jimmy.
King Yum will be closed Jan. 13-14. A viewing will be held Jan. 13 at Ng Fook Funeral Home, 36 Mulberry St., in Chinatown, from 2-7 p.m. Burial will take place Jan. 14 at Evergreen Cemetery in Brooklyn.
Jimmy is survived by his three children, their spouses, seven grandchildren and two great-granddaughters.