Charles Thomas Swatzell III, formerly of Decatur and Huntsville, Ala., died July 13, 2004, at age 48 in Austin, Texas. Tommy had been a resident of Austin for 24 years. He passed away while at work. Tommy worked for the University of Texas public television station KLRU for the past 21 years, most recently serving as master controller. He was also a longtime staff member of the renowned television show, Austin City Limits.In addition, he was an accomplished writer, graphic artist, songwriter and musician. Over the past two years Tommy had participated as master of ceremonies, performer and workshop leader for numerous music festivals across the country in memory of his father, Tom Swatzell, the Dobro King. Tommy was born in Decatur on July 21, 1955. His family later moved to Huntsville where he attended Madison Academy. He began performing on guitar while in Huntsville. He moved to Austin, Texas in 1980 and attended college. His entry into television began as an operations engineer at KBVO. He quickly advanced into studio and field productions to become technical director.In 1990, he started his own business, Video Events, and produced a number of shows for a wide variety of customers. He became adept at using new and emerging technologies for creating and editing video productions. His work was much in demand by universities and stage agencies. He also provided photos and articles for special interest magazines.As videographer and editor for Capital City News Service, Tommy created syndicated news programs for statewide, national and international distribution.Over his career in videography, Tommy served as director and supervisor of numerous shows that were recognized with awards including the Governor’s Silver Spur for Excellence in Creative Communications and the Cine Golden Eagle. Throughout his life, Tommy followed a variety of interests and honed his many talents. After mastering the guitar, he became proficient on the banjo, moved on to Dobro and then found the mandolin to be “his” instrument. Singing and songwriting were second nature. He also enjoyed researching the history of Studebaker automobiles and the Jeep Comanche, and interacting with other enthusiasts on those two subjects. Tommy possessed expert knowledge in all his areas of interest and was sought out to answer questions from across the country and beyond. Tommy was planning a music tour to Australia in 2005. He somehow always found a way to include sensitivity and much loved sense of humor into everything he did. Tommy always looked for ways to bring even a moment of joy to everyone, whether leaving a treat in the mailbox for the mail carrier or dropping some change for needy children to find on the street. He had a way of eventually bringing smiles into even difficult situations and will be remembered for his generous nature, amazing creativity, diverse talents, humor, and his love and sensitivity for everyone. Tommy is survived by his wife, Nathy; his mother, Bertha Lamon Swatzell of Austin, Texas; his sister, Mary Nell Swatzell Eidson of Glenview, Ill.; and his nephew, William Charles Eidson and wife Kelly of Glenview, Ill. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Thomas Swatzell Jr. Services will be held at Roselawn Funeral Home in Decatur, Sunday, July 18, 2004, at 3 p.m. Visitation will be Sunday from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the funeral home. A memorial service will be scheduled in Austin, Texas, in conjunction with KLRU. Tommy will also receive recognition at upcoming music festivals in Minnesota and Iowa.