We are deeply saddened to report on the passing of our dear friend and former colleague retired Chief Inspector David “Dave” Barber earlier today (23rd December 2025) at King Edward Hospital. Dave had been in poor health recently.
Born in Aston, England, Dave served in the Machester City Police as a Cadet from 1959-1961 and as a constable from 1961-1965 prior to joining the Bermuda Police in October 1965. His first posting was to Western Division (Somerset) where he spent much of his career. In 1970 he was appointed as an Aide in Western CID where he took to detective work and was promoted to Detective Sergeant in December 1971. Following a two year spell in Central CID he returned to Western Division as OIC. In December 1980 he was promoted to Inspector and served as OIC Western Division, then moved to Central CID, and for several years he served as Supreme Court Officer. In 1987 Dave transferred to Operations before returning to Central CID. He retired in April 1997 after 32 years service in the BPS.
In 1983 Dave was awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct medal and in 1986 he received the 30 year clasp,
Dave was a very popular police officer throughout his career and there’s no question that he loved serving in Western Division and was very active in the social activities and the esprit decorp of the men and women he worked with. He enjoyed playing cricket and even organized the Dave Barber 11 to play friendly games with other teams.
Dave played some football for Western Division and also played darts for ”a very successful Western Division darts team”.
Dave was for many years an active member of the Bermuda Section of the International Police Association, and helped to organize overseas trips.
Dave married his wife, Marjorie (nee Briggs) in March 1968, and they had two children Catherine (Cathie) and Andrew.
We offer sincere condolences to Marjorie, their two children Cathie and Andrew, their grandchildren, Matthew, Blake, and Micah, and to other relatives and many friends.
24th December 2025
We have been advised that Marj is very appreciative of all the kind thoughts from friends, but at this point would rather have some peace and solitude in the short term and isn't up to random visits and calls at this time. It is more than likely the family will hold a small private funeral, and maybe a more publc memorial in due time.