Disney Legend Richard Sherman died Saturday, May 25, 2024 at the age of 95 from age related illness.
Richard Sherman and his brother Robert Sherman (known collectively as the Sherman Brothers) wrote many of The Walt Disney Company’s famous songs. Richard’s brother, Robert, died in 2012.
Songs of the Sherman Brothers were included in Disney movies such as Mary Poppins and Jungle Book. They also wrote songs for attractions at Disney Parks including It’s A Small World (at Disneyland and Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom), There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow (at the Carousel of Progress currently at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom), and The Tiki, Tiki, Tiki Room (at The Enchanted Tiki Room at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom).
After working with Walt Disney on the songs for the film Mary Poppins, Disney regularly asked Richard to play Feed The Birds on Disney’s personal piano at his office. Up until Richard’s passing, he was the only person allowed to still play Walt Disney’s piano.
The Sherman Brothers won several Oscars and Grammys over the course of their careers. In 2005, Richard and Robert were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Richard and his brother were inducted as Disney Legends in 1990.
“Richard Sherman was the embodiment of what it means to be a Disney Legend, creating along with his brother Robert the beloved classics that have become a cherished part of the soundtrack of our lives,” said Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company. “From films like Mary Poppins and The Jungle Book to attractions like ‘it’s a small world,’ the music of the Sherman Brothers has captured the hearts of generations of audiences. We are forever grateful for the mark Richard left on the world, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family.”
Richard is survived by his wife of 66 years, Elizabeth; son Gregory and grandsons William and Matthew; daughter Victoria Wolf, son-in-law Doug Wolf, and grandchildren Mandy and Anthony. He is also survived by his daughter from a previous marriage, Lynda Rothstein, as well as her two children and three grandchildren. A private funeral is scheduled to take place Friday, May 31, at Hillside Memorial Park and Mortuary in Los Angeles. Plans for a celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
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