Family pays tribute at funeral of Sydenham teenager who was “loved by the whole community”

By Regina Motalib

The family of a 17 year old stabbing victim have paid an emotional tribute to him at his funeral.

Levi Ernest-Morrison was knifed to death on a busy high street yards away from his home in Sydenham on April 10.

The funeral took place at The Our Lady and St Philip Neri Church in Sydenham on August 23.

His parents, siblings, god mother and teacher all addressed mourners who had gathered to pay their respects.

His father, Christopher, described his son as “loved”, saying: “He had a simple way of touching people.”

He said one of his greatest moments with Levi was when he took him to Jamaica for two weeks to meet family members he’d never met before.

Christopher added: “I loved him with all my heart.”

Joining him on the podium, was his son, Levi’s brother who made an emotional speech.

He said: “Whilst I was at university, I received the news that my brother had passed away.

“I couldn’t process what I was being told then and I’m still struggling with the realisation that my baby brother is no longer here with me.” 

He also read out a poem which he wrote for his brother. 

One of Levi’s teachers from South Quay College, also spoke at the funeral, saying: “Levi, we miss you.”

Levi’s mother, Bonnie remembered her much loved son and shared special moments with mourners.

She described him as intelligent and an ‘Indigo child’ who was walking and talking before his first birthday.

She also called him her ‘handbag baby’ as she would take him to work with her when she was a dance teacher.

She said: “He was loved by the whole community and all our neighbours at Hazel Grove.”

Bonnie also spoke about Levi’s determination to help others such as his neighbour Julie, who he helped with her garden – even helping to transform it when she became unwell so it was easier for her to enjoy.

She said Levi was happy with his school life and his girlfriend and that he was a doting son who wanted to start a construction business with her. 

Bonnie added: “His presence will never be forgotten. His name will keep on shining. My baby boy, I miss you so much.”

A GoFundMe campaign was set up by family members following his death to cover funeral costs and also support a knife crime charity.

It raised over £12,000 from friends, family and neighbours as well as anonymous donors who were touched by this tragic incident.

Levi had a disability which affected his mobility. He was fatally stabbed as he went out to meet his friends.

Nicola Leighton, 36 and her son Tyreese Ulysses, 19, and three other people under the age of 18 are due to go on trial charged in connection with the fatal stabbing.

They are remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey on Monday, October 4.