Roy E. Disney died today at the age of 79

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Walt Disney's nephew Roy E. Disney died today at the age of 79. A long time executive with the company, Disney was battling cancer when he died.

Roy Disney was noted for films about nature and his biggest accomplishment was returning the company to the animation film business after successfully forcing out two top executives.

Disney helped bring the company back to popular animated films such as 'The Little Mermaid' and the 'Lion King' which also went on to be a Broadway play for years.

Disney was also known for his philanthropic actions with donations to schools and hospitals. Disney died early today at Hoag Memorial Hospital in Newport Beach, California.


The official statement is here:

http://corporate.disney.go.com/news/corporate/2009/2009_1216_roy_e_disney.html

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