MUMBAI:  Disney senior executive and Walt Disney’s nephew Roy Edward Disney passed away at the age of 79. He died on Wednesday 16 December, 2009, in California after a year-long battle with stomach cancer.

Roy Edward was the son of Disney Studios co-founder Roy O. Disney. Roy Edward was instrumental in restoring his uncle’s legendary animation company. He began his career as an assistant director. He then went on to produce true-life adventure films in the mid 1950s and was elected to the Board of Directors in 1957.

He then quit the company after being 30 years on board, when he was denied a larger role in the company during a corporate takeover. However he later returned as vice-chairman of the board of directors and head of the animation department.

He was associated with the Company over a 56-year period, and from 1984 – 2003, served as vice chairman of the Company’s board of directors, and chairman of the Studio’s Animation Department. In recent years, he held the title of director emeritus and consultant for the Company.

Disney is survived by his wife, Leslie, and four children from his marriage to Patricia Dailey Disney – Tim Disney, Roy Patrick Disney, Abigail Disney, and Susan Disney Lord. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren.

Funeral services will be private, followed by cremation. His ashes will be scattered at sea.