Roy O. Disney, an American entrepreneur, co-founded Walt Disney Productions, later renamed The Walt Disney Company, alongside his younger brother Walt Disney.
As the business-minded counterpart to Walt's creative genius, Roy ensured the company's financial stability. Although Walt acquired most of Roy's share in 1929, Roy remained an equal partner in all aspects of the production company.
In 1929, Roy became the company's initial CEO, although the official title was not formally bestowed until 1968. He also shared the role of chairman of the board with Walt from 1945. Walt relinquished the chairman title in 1960 to focus on the creative aspects of the company.
Following Walt Disney's passing in 1966, Roy postponed his retirement to oversee the construction of what was then known as Disney World. He later renamed it Walt Disney World in tribute to his brother.
Upon Walt Disney's death, Roy became the president of Walt Disney Productions on December 15, 1966, and held the position until 1968.
Roy O. Disney passed away on December 20, 1971, at the age of 78, just a few months after the Walt Disney World theme park officially opened.
