Disney Legend Ruthie Tompson Passes Away At Age 111

For many years, Disney has strived to be a company dedicated to making magic. And that magic is made largely in part by the people who work for the company.

Ruthie Tompson, left, walks with Walt Disney and two of her fellow Ink & Paint Department workers. [Courtesy of D23]

Many amazing Cast Members and employees have been a part of Disney history, and today we honor one of those people after her passing.

Disney legend Ruthie Tompson passed away at her home in Woodland Hills, California on Sunday, October 10th. In her 111 years of life, Tompson contributed heavily to the success of The Walt Disney Company.

©Disney | Disney Legends Ruthie Tompson and Whoopi Goldberg

She started out in the Ink & Paint Department, eventually working her way through various roles in final check, scene planning and the camera department. She worked for the company for 40 years and was the employee with the longest history with Walt and Roy O. Disney. She retired in 1975 and was named a Disney Legend in 2000.

Ruthie Tompson is shown at her work station at the Walt Disney Studios. [The Walt Disney Company]

“Ruthie was a legend among animators, and her creative contributions to Disney — from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to The Rescuers — remain beloved classics to this day,” said Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger. “While we will miss her smile and wonderful sense of humor, her exceptional work and pioneering spirit will forever be an inspiration to us all.”

Ruthie Tompson poses for a photo outside the Motion Picture and Television Home. [Courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter]

Ruthie Tompson’s contributions to the Walt Disney Company and its classic films will not be forgotten. Our condolences go out to her friends and family.