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302-478-7100 Wilmington & Hockessin, DE

Steven M. Kelly

Steven Kelly, a man of deep loyalty, service and family devotion, passed away on March 30, 2026, at the age of 68.

Born to the late Thomas Kelly Sr. and Edna Thomas, Steven grew up in Southwest Philadelphia on Muhlfeld Street. He was a proud neighborhood man, and graduate of West Catholic and LaSalle College. His work ethic was legendary and was a true Jack of all trades. He was a member of Union Painters Local 703, found success in the mortgage and home improvement industry. Most recently, he found great purpose in his work at the Keystone Center.

His desire to help was a guiding light, evidenced by his many decades as a member, sponsor and mentor within the AA community. He was a man who didn’t just offer words and stories, but actions to anyone who needed help.

Steve’s greatest joys were found in simple things: cheering on Philadelphia sports teams, enjoying the Florida sunshine, and hosting family get-togethers. He especially cherished his daily dinners with his daughter Bridget, Dennis (DJ) and Shea. His legacy of love lives on through his children whom he loved dearly, Steven (Madelyn) and Bridget Kelly, and his 8-month-old grandson Jack, who was the light of his life. He is also survived by his former spouse, Mary Kay Freno (Bob), and his loving siblings: Thomas Kelly (Kate), Linda Robinson, Paul Kelly (Jeanine), and Eileen DiJohn.

He lived a life defined by showing up for his family, friends and community. He will be remembered by his storytelling, commitment to helping others, his infectious laugh, and his love for his family.

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Funeral Services

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a gathering on Friday, April 17, 2026 from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, at Chandler Funeral Home, located at 2506 Concord Pike, Wilmington, DE 19803.

Condolences

    Pat McGowan writes,
    The memories are all good! God speed!
    04/03/2026 12:33 pm
    Jim barone writes,
    Steven, Bridget and family, Very sad to hear this. I had so many great times with your dad. He certainly loved his family. He will be missed. My condolences to all of you.
    04/03/2026 12:59 pm
    Bridget Kelly writes,
    My heart ♥️loved you so much dad . Miss u a lot
    04/03/2026 01:09 pm
    Sam Young lit a candle and writes,
    So sorry for your loss; my condolences with Bridget and the family
    04/03/2026 05:06 pm
    Kate Kelly lit a candle and writes,
    I will always treasure Steven’s visits to Maine with Bridget. There were always lots of laughs and fun adventures. Thinking of the family and sending my sincere condolences. You will be missed brother-in-law.
    04/03/2026 06:41 pm
    Debbie Lignore Powers writes,
    Steven was our neighbor on Muhlfeld St. We were right next door to the Kelly Family. So many memories of him and the rest of the Kelly Family. Christmas mornings going back and forth, camping. We had the best street and the best families living there. So sorry for your family’s loss!
    04/03/2026 09:12 pm
    Kathy Atkins writes,
    What incredible memories I have of Steven from the time we met in grade school. He will be missed. Rest in Peace Steve! 😢💔
    04/03/2026 11:42 pm
    Mark Caserta writes,
    So sorry for your loss. Steven was a great guy. A true childhood and teenage friend. We played together and hung out together many years in Southwest Philly in the good old days. He was also a very funny guy, always knew how to make us laugh. Just a really good guy! The whole Kelly family was a great family! RIP Steve!
    04/04/2026 04:41 am
    Jeanine Robinson writes,
    Fly high among the angels, Uncle Steven. We will miss you deeply but we take great comfort in knowing that you are in a much better place. Watch over us all until we meet again. We will see you on the other side. Love you.
    04/05/2026 12:34 pm
    Patti Gallagher Mellon writes,
    My deepest and sincerest condolences to Steven's family and friends. Steven was a friend from childhood. We shared a lot of memories as a group hanging out at Patterson School. May he rest in peace.
    04/06/2026 06:52 am
    Karen Milillo writes,
    Steven Kelly entered our lives when our grade school boys became fast friends. Patrick was invited on numerous fishing trips, sleepovers and other adventures with Mr. Kelly and son, Steven. All of you occupy a big piece of our heart and we share in your grief at this loss, with the eternal hope that Steven is with God who was always with him.
    04/06/2026 07:23 am
    David Cianfaro writes,
    Stephen & Bridgette; My heart felt condolences for your Dad. He was a great friend to me , always there to help with a project. We did a lot together when you two were younger, had fun on many occasions. My prayers are with you during these trying times and it’s always been a joy knowing you two. God bless—-Bozz
    04/17/2026 09:18 am

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