Riley Strain Honored at Celebration of Life a Week After His Body Was Found in Nashville River
The college student was remembered by family and friends at a service in his hometown of Springfield, Missouri, on Friday
Riley Strain is being remembered by his family and friends.
One week after the University of Missouri student, 22, was found dead in Nashville's Cumberland River, and two weeks after he initially went missing, Strain was honored by his loved ones during a memorial service in his hometown of Springfield, Missouri, on Friday.
The funeral featured music, including a song that reminded Strain's parents of him, as well as one that made the young adult think of his childhood friends, KY3 reported.
Many spoke during the service, including Strain's high school friend, Joey Cockell, according to ABC News. "One lesson I learned from Riley is to always stay in the present and don't overthink," he said. "He always told me to be in the moment, and everything else will come."
"Riley always found a way to make others smile," Cockell added, per the outlet. "I can't put into words how much I miss hearing his voice. Without Riley, I'm lost."
Related: A Complete Timeline of Missing Student Riley Strain's Disappearance
Strain was last seen by friends at a bar on Broadway in Tennessee earlier this month, the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department previously said.
He was asked to leave Luke's 32 Bridge Food + Drink, Luke Bryan's restaurant and bar, according to a previous statement from TC Restaurant Group, which oversees the country singer's establishment.
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Strain later appeared on multiple surveillance cameras, where he was seen interacting with a police officer, before walking towards a bridge.
Police later told PEOPLE that the "preliminary autopsy showed no apparent signs of foul play and his death continues to appear accidental."
Related: Missing University of Missouri Student Riley Strain Found Dead
Shortly after Strain's was found, his family said the entire ordeal was an “emotional rollercoaster.”
Michelle Whiteid, Strain's mother, thanked those who helped locate her son — and made a plea to other mothers. "I just ask that you mommas out there hug your babies tight tonight, please," she said. "Please, for me."
In his obituary, Strain was remembered as having a “deep care for the community and the environment.”
The tribute also added that he "cherished time spent with family, creating lasting memories."
"Riley Strain’s presence will be profoundly missed, but his joyous approach to life and the happiness he brought to those around him will forever be remembered," the obituary said.
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