Tom Copeland Credit: Courtesy of Van Redin

It’s impossible to talk about the film industry in Texas without crediting Tom Copeland as a behind-the-scenes legend. Now friends, family, and everyone in the industry who knew, worked with, or whose life was touched by Copeland will have a chance to celebrate his legacy.

The Tom Copeland Memorial/Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, June 27, from 11am to 3pm at Star Hill Ranch (15000 Hamilton Pool, Bee Cave www.starhillranch). Dress code is casual attire, and there will be refreshments. RSVP at tomcmemories@gmail.com.

In his 12 years as executive director of the Texas Film Commission, Copeland had an immeasurable impact on the Lone Star State’s film industry. He then helped build its talent pool even further in his time as a lecturer at Texas State University (read more about his life and work here).

The organizers are also putting together a video tribute to Copeland for the event and are asking people who knew him to send in photos, videos, and anecdotes of and about him to the same email address.

This article appears in June 7 • 2024.

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The Chronicle's first Culture Desk editor, Richard has reported on Austin's growing film production and appreciation scene for over a decade. A graduate of the universities of York, Stirling, and UT-Austin, a Rotten Tomatoes certified critic, and eight-time Best of Austin winner, he's currently at work on two books and a play.