Stephen Edward Comly, Sr.

Stephen E. Comly Sr., known for his generosity, quick wit, and ability to light up a room, passed away March 6 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born Nov. 21, 1955, he was surrounded by the love of his family in his final days.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Donna nee Beyer; his children, Carolyn (Jason) Steigleman, Stephen E. Comly Jr. (Bridget), Katherine (Raymond) Schmitt, and Lauren (Christopher) Dengler; and his 10 cherished grandchildren, who brought him great pride and joy. He is also survived by his 10 siblings and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel J. Comly and Patricia Comly nee Barrow and an infant sibling.

Steve grew up in St. Bernadette’s Parish in the Havertown area and spent much of his childhood on Lexington Avenue. The family home there was remembered by many friends and relatives as a lively gathering place. He attended St. Joseph’s Preparatory School and Saint Joseph’s University, where he formed friendships that remained important to him throughout his life.

Steve was known for his generosity, connection, and leadership. As an auctioneer and former president of Comly Auctioneers & Appraisers, one of the oldest family-owned auction companies in the United States, he, with his brothers as partners, carried forward a proud family tradition while leaving their own mark on the profession. Steve’s influence extended nationally through his service as president of the Certified Auctioneers Institute and the Industrial Auctioneers Association. Many also came to know him as a mentor who was quick to offer encouragement.

Among the most notable moments of Steve’s career was acting as auctioneer for the sale of memorabilia from Veterans Stadium following its closing. Hundreds gathered for the event, bidding on pieces of Philadelphia sports history. The seven-hour auction raised significant funds for Phillies Charities and marked the final chapter of a beloved era. It was a fitting stage for Steve’s energy and presence.

Steve loved entertaining others and had a natural ability to command a room. Long before his professional career began, his father sent him to auctioneer school where he learned the rapid-fire chant that became his trademark. The rhythmic chant delighted his grandchildren, who often asked him to perform it. Anyone fortunate enough to attend one of his live auctions left impressed by the speed, energy, and personality he brought to the podium.

His generosity extended beyond his professional life. Steve supported many charitable efforts, including Coaches vs. Cancer and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Steve had a lifelong love of golf and was an exceptional player who competed on the Saint Joseph’s University golf team. He spent countless hours on the course at Llanerch Country Club, where he was a longtime member and proud supporter of the club’s future. One of his personal achievements was serving for many years on the club’s Board of Directors and two terms as president during a transformative period of long-term planning and clubhouse renovation.

Above all, Steve adored his family. He rarely missed the chance to sit on the sidelines cheering for his grandchildren at their activities and events. Summers spent together in Sea Isle City were among his happiest traditions.

For the past decade, Steve faced Alzheimer’s disease with courage and determination. Even while living with the illness, he chose to participate in a clinical research trial in hopes of advancing treatment and understanding for future generations.

Those who knew Steve will remember the joy he brought into every room he entered. Whether behind an auction podium, on the golf course, or among friends and family, he had a gift for bringing people together and lifting spirits.

Steve’s greatest talent was simple. He made people feel good to be around him.

Relatives and friends are invited to Steve’s viewing Thursday, March 12, 2026 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM and Friday, March 13, 2026 from 8:15 AM to 9:15 AM at The Donohue Funeral Home, 8401 West Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA followed by his funeral mass at 10:00 AM at St. Pius X Church, 220 Lawrence Road, Broomall, PA. Interment at SS Peter and Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations in Steve’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association to support research and care for those facing Alzheimer’s disease.