A ROUND of applause rippled around the packed out chapel at Howe Bridge Crematorium today, Monday, towards the end of the funeral service for a popular teenager.
Hundreds gathered to remember 19-year-old Dean Carney, from Leigh, who passed away after suffering leg pain. An inquest has been opened into his death.
Mourners wore the shirts of their favourite football and rugby clubs at the service in keeping with Dean’s love of sport.
Dean's coffin being carried into Howe Bridge Crematorium
A group of Dean’s friends wore sky blue shirts with Manchester City crests and “Deano” written on the back, which paid homage to him being a diehard fan of the Premier League champions.
Many people had to stand outside the chapel due to the sheer number of mourners that turned up to pay their respects to Dean, who worked at Sainsbury’s and as a delivery driver for Balti Hut takeaway.
Tears flowed as celebrant Allan Stockley gave an impassioned tribute to the former Westleigh High School student, who was a “bright lad” and an “exemplary pupil”.
Dean’s singing skills won him a spot on the school choir and he regularly showed off his vocals on the bus and his own YouTube channel.
He also established himself as one the most talented goalkeepers in the area on the football pitch.
Dean played rugby league for one season with Hindley ARLFC supported Wigan Warriors even though he was a frequent visitor to Leigh Sports Village to watch the Centurions play.
Dean carrying his nephew Cohen alongside his dad
Family life was very important to Dean, who liked spending as much time as possible with his four nieces and one nephew.
Mr Stockley said: “His interest in other people was sincere and genuine.
"He really was a unique character and somebody special to everyone who shared his life."
Wreaths of flowers laid for Dean
Dean’s friend Chelsea Lee also spoke about her memories with him and said that he “always had a smile on his face”.
He was a regular visitor at her band's gigs and knew all the group's songs.
Ed Sheeran's Thinking Out Loud played as the service concluded.
Friends and family then went to the Spinners Arms pub to share more memories of Dean's life.
Dean leaves behind his mum Sharon, dad Dean and his older sisters Hayley and Steph.
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