You might think that being the daughter of Walt Disney would make it hard to stay out of the spotlight, but that wasn’t the case for his oldest daughter, Diane Disney, who sadly passed away at the age of 79.
Diane said that growing up her mother, sister and herself chose to stay at home and away from the cameras. But when architect Frank Gehry was almost pushed out of the Walt Disney Concert Hall project, she knew it was time to speak up and step out of the shadows.
Diane not only made sure Gehry kept his job, but also made sure the concert hall that would display her father’s name, was built in a way that would please him. Dianne worked throughout her life to make sure the Disney name was protected and that her father’s legacy was preserved.
Diane’s death was a result of complications of a fall. She is survived by her husband, Ron, as well as by their sons Christopher, Walter, Ronald and Patrick; daughters Joanna and Tamara Miller and Jennifer Miller-Goff; 13 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
In honor of Diane Disney Miller and her work and dedication to the Disney company, Disney theme parks and the Disney Studio Lot in Burbank flew their flags at half mast.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Diane Disney Miller and our thoughts are with her family during this difficult time,” Robert A. Iger, president and chief executive officer of The Walt Disney Co., said in a statement Tuesday. “As the beloved daughter of Walt Disney and one of his inspirations for creating Disneyland, she holds a special place in the history of The Walt Disney Co. and in the hearts of fans everywhere. She will be remembered for her grace and generosity and tireless work to preserve her father’s legacy, and she will be greatly missed by all who knew her. In her memory and honor, flags at the Disney Studio Lot in Burbank and at our theme parks will be flown at half-mast.”
Image from YouTube.