Roy E. Disney: A Noted Disney Heir and Philanthropist

Roy E. Disney was an American businessman and philanthropist who is best known as the son of Walt Disney and one of the founders of The Walt Disney Company.

Early Life and Family

Roy E. Disney was born on January 10, 1930, in Los Angeles, California. His father, Roy O. Disney, was one of the co-founders of The Walt Disney Company. His mother, Edna Francis, was a homemaker.

Disney had five siblings:

• Diane Disney Miller
• Sharon Mae Disney Lund
• Victoria Disney
li> Wade Disney
• Tim Disney

Disney grew up in a wealthy family and attended exclusive schools. He graduated from Harvard University in 1952 with a degree in economics.

Career in the Entertainment Industry

Disney began his career in the entertainment industry as a producer. He worked on several successful films, including "The Shaggy Dog" (1959) and "The Parent Trap" (1961).

In 1967, Disney joined The Walt Disney Company as a director. He served on the company's board of directors for over 30 years.

During his time at Disney, Disney helped to oversee the production of several successful films, including "The Little Mermaid" (1989), "Beauty and the Beast" (1991), and "The Lion King" (1994).

Disney also played a key role in the development of the Disney theme parks. He was involved in the planning and construction of Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and Tokyo Disneyland.

Philanthropy

Disney was a dedicated philanthropist. He supported a wide range of causes, including education, the environment, and the arts.

In 1991, Disney founded the Roy E. Disney Family Foundation. The foundation supports a variety of charitable organizations, including the American Red Cross, the United Way, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Disney also served on the board of directors of the California Institute of Technology and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Awards and Honors

Disney received numerous awards and honors throughout his career.

• In 1998, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President Bill Clinton.
• In 2004, he was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame.
• In 2007, he was awarded the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement in film.

Personal Life

Disney was married three times. He had four children:

• Roy P. Disney
• Abigail Disney
• Susan Disney Lord
• Timothy B. Disney

Disney died on December 16, 2009, at the age of 79.