Simmons, a rising sophomore at Fike High School and a drummer at his church, was honored during a vigil attended by members of the Wilson community.
Through tears, his mother, Kim Simmons, expressed her disbelief and grief.
"I just can't believe somebody would take my baby," she said. "It's all just hurt and heartbroken."
Kim Simmons said those who knew her son would remember his infectious personality and the impact he had on those around him.
"We're all going to miss how funny he was, how joyful he was, how he laughed and how he touched everybody," she said. "He had a good heart."
Authorities allege Simmons was shot and killed by a 17-year-old he knew. The teenage suspect is facing murder charges.
Speaking about the tragedy, Kim Simmons urged young people to be careful about those they trust.
"Teenagers out there in the world today - they need to watch who they call friends," she said. "They've got to watch their surroundings because you never know what might happen."
She also reflected on the pain of losing her son while the suspect remains alive.
"He's going to still be alive in prison, but I can't see my baby anymore," she said.
During the gathering, loved ones focused on celebrating Simmons' life and legacy.
Roderick Ward, Simmons' cousin and a pastor, described him as a caring and ambitious young man.
"If you want to meet someone caring, full of life and ambitious," Ward said. "That was Ladarrius."
Ward, who said Simmons looked up to him, called for action to address violence affecting young people.
"Our young people need role models, they need positive role models (who will) guide them and mentor them," Ward said, "It's good we can come together for this balloon release and do a vigil, but what do we do after that?"
As loved ones shared memories and mourned Simmons' death, speakers emphasized the importance of mentorship, community support and positive influences to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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