Roy Edward Disney, nephew of Disney founder Walt Disney and son of co-founder Roy O. Disney, has died in Newport Beach, California after a year-long battle with stomach cancer.

Disney was one of the key players in the reemergence of The Walt Disney Company and specifically the animation division.

He was a writer and producer in the company and later became the vice chairman of the company’s board of directors as well as head of the animation department.

The Walt Disney Company released this statement:

“On behalf of everyone at Disney, we are saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague Roy E. Disney. He was much more than a valued 56-year Company veteran — Roy’s true passion and focus were preserving and building upon the amazing legacy of Disney animation that was started by his father and uncle. Roy’s commitment to the art of animation was unparalleled and will always remain his personal legacy and one of his greatest contributions to Disney’s past, present and future,” said Bob Iger, president and CEO of The Walt Disney Company.

His death comes one day after the anniversary of his uncle Walt Disney’s death back in 1966.

In recent years Disney was openly critical of the company and its then CEO, Michael Isner. In fact, he led two major investor revolts in his career.

The first in 1984, where he led a successful effort to oust Walt Disney’s son-in-law from the company. And nearly two-decades later he managed another successful revolt against Isner.

Disney is survived by his wife, Leslie, four children from his previous marriage to Patricia Dailey Disney, as well as his 16 grandchildren.

Roy Edward Disney was 79 years old.

Funeral services will be private, followed by cremation. His ashes will be scattered at sea. Plans for a Life Celebration will be announced shortly.

Updated statements from The Walt Disney Company corporate web site:

John Lasseter, chief creative officer for Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, added, “I first met Roy when I was still in animation student at CalArts. Not only did I consider him a personal friend, but he was a great man who believed deeply in the art of animation. He put his heart and soul into preserving Disney’s legendary past, while helping to move the art of animation into the modern age by embracing new technology. Roy was a visionary and passionate supporter of the art form, and he was all about quality. I was always impressed that he would make time for someone like me when I was fresh out of college, and he continued to support and encourage me throughout my career.”

Stanley Gold, president, Shamrock Holdings, said, “Roy and I enjoyed a 35-year friendship and partnership that was simply special. We faced many business challenges together, had fun in the process, and enjoyed a wide variety of professional successes. Roy was a man who was steadfastly loyal to his principles and to his friends. He was a gracious, humble gentleman who could make the tough decisions life sometimes requires. He carried the torch high and proud, and the world is a better place for his tireless efforts. I will miss him greatly.”