Family broken without teen Dexter Barham after he died in Canterbury crash

Friday, 23 March 2018

Dexter was understood to hold only a learner's licence, which meant he was forbidden drive without a supervisor who had held a full licence for at least two years.

A front bumper, four rims and a Shirley Boys' High School tie adorned the stage at the funeral service for a 'loveable rogue with an infectious smile'.

Former schoolmates gave an emotional haka at the funeral for Dexter Morgan Barham, which media were invited to attend at Christchurch's Majestic Church on Friday afternoon.

Police said Dexter, a 16-year-old learner driver, was killed when the white Nissan Silvia he was driving crossed the centre line and collided head-on with another vehicle on State Highway 1, about 2 kilometres north of Amberley, shortly after 6am on Sunday.

Dexter and his passenger and girlfriend, Burgundy-Rose Eden Brown, also 16, died at the scene. Three other people – another passenger and two from the oncoming car – were injured.

Students from Shirley Boys' High performed a haka as Dexter's coffin was carried out.

Shirley Boys' High School dean Dominic Bell shared memories of his 'cheeky' former student who had a mop of blonde hair and infectious smile.

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16 rainbow balloons were released after the ceremony.

* Community farewells teen Burgundy-Rose Brown after 'horrific' Canterbury crash**

More than 300 mourners packed tightly into the small church on Friday to hear stories of an adored son and brother who was 'like a second father' to his five siblings.

Amanda Barham spoke of a son who was an inspiration to his family, and had 'taken a chunk' of her heart with him.

'[Your siblings] wanted to be everything you were and [your brother] is walking around with his top off, just like Dexter. He's still here waiting for you to take him to the gym like you promised.'

Dexter, who was also known as Deccy, had a 'heart of gold and an outrageous smile', Barham said.

'You were handsome, you were hot, you were so kind. You had your whole life ahead of you and you were so excited to start your diesel mechanic course.

'My darling boy you just couldn't wait until the right time to get your car. I'm not mad at you, you were just 16 years young and thought you knew . . . many people may criticise you for your choice that you made but I stand proud calling you a legend. Son, you made me so proud.

'If only I knew you were only on lend, I would have done so much more.'

Shane Barham said his son was a keen car enthusiast and often talked about car modifications and vehicles he wanted to buy. He would send photos of Nissan Skylines and Silvias to friends and was always browsing car websites.

'Not long ago me and Dexter went to the drags. It was cold and windy but we watched his favourite cars go down the track and he said 'Dad, this is awesome, but next time can we bring our own cars?' Dexter doesn't like to watch.'

Burgundy-Rose's brother, Trent, spoke of the close friendship he shared with Dexter, and said it brought him comfort to know his sister was with someone who loved her.

Puff Daddy's I'll Be Missing You played as the teen's white casket was carried outside.

Family and friends released 16 rainbow balloons as the engines of about six cars and a motorcycle revved. They vehicles then sped off down the central city road outside the church, followed by a hearse carrying Dexter, who would be 'forever 16'.