Stephen E. Comly Sr.

Stephen E. Comly Sr. passed away on March 6 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Born on November 21, 1955, he was surrounded by the love of his family in his final days.

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

Steve grew up in St. Bernadette’s Parish in the Havertown area, spending much of his childhood on Lexington Avenue, where the family home was a lively gathering place for friends and relatives. He attended St. Joseph’s Preparatory School and Saint Joseph’s University, forming friendships that remained important to him throughout his life.

Known for his generosity, quick wit, and ability to light up a room, Steve carried forward a proud family tradition as an auctioneer and former president of Comly Auctioneers & Appraisers, one of the oldest family-owned auction companies in the United States. With his brothers as partners, he helped shape the profession through his leadership, serving as president of the Certified Auctioneers Institute and the Industrial Auctioneers Association. He was a valued mentor who offered encouragement to many. Among the highlights of his career was serving as auctioneer for the sale of memorabilia from Veterans Stadium, a seven-hour event that drew hundreds and raised significant funds for Phillies Charities.

Steve had a lifelong love of golf and was an exceptional player who competed on the Saint Joseph’s University golf team. A longtime member of Llanerch Country Club, he served for many years on its Board of Directors and two terms as president during a period of long-term planning and clubhouse renovation. He supported numerous charitable efforts, including Coaches vs. Cancer and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Above all, Steve adored his family. He rarely missed the chance to cheer for his grandchildren at their activities and cherished summers spent together in Sea Isle City. For the past decade, he faced Alzheimer’s disease with courage and determination, participating in a clinical research trial in hopes of advancing treatment 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 making them feel good to be around him.