Family and friends wiped away tears as a video slideshow of the short but adventurous life of Billy Ray Waters flashed across a screen at his funeral.
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Mr Waters' body was found by police in bushland at Mayfield on August 16.
Lethborg Funeral Services director Phillip Lethborg officiated the packed service, saying it was important to keep away from certain environments and people who "aren't good for us".
"My prayer for all of you here today is that you find comfort that Billy Ray's love lives on in and through you, his family and friends," Mr Lethborg said.
"I think we're all going to be challenged as a result of this to live and love better as a result of Billy Ray's tragedy."
Mr Waters lived with his grandparents at Tomahawk, in the state's North-East, from age 11. He loved being in high places, fearlessly climbing trees and roofs.
Mr Waters spent most of his high school years at Winnaleah and Scottsdale, as well as a short stint at Brooks.
Like many teenage boys, he loved skateboards, bikes, cars and spending time with his mates.
A story about his witty nature and good sense of humour was shared.
Mr Waters was going swimming on a rainy day when his nan said without thinking: "You're going to get wet."
He laughed and replied: "Duh, Nan, it's wet in the water."
The teenager loved swimming and the beach, often found out a little too deep on the rubber tyre. Sugary foods were his favourite, especially Tim Tams.
The budding artist loved graffiti, with the funeral program splashed with his work.
"He loved writing on everything, including walls and furniture. He loved rapping also and his dream was to be a rap star one day," Mr Lethborg said.
"Billy liked to collect things, he liked to collect signs; some legally, some maybe not so legally. There's a garage full of them somewhere."
Mr Waters is survived by three siblings - Lily, Harley and Matthew, as well as his half-sister Maddison.
"Billy Ray made some poor choices, but he wanted the best for his loved ones. He said to Harley upon reading his report, he should work hard and not to be like him," Mr Lethborg said.
Family and friends signed Mr Waters' coffin in purple, his favourite colour.
About 150 people attended Tuesday's service at The Boathouse Launceston.