Leota Toombs Thomas

The millions of guests that have explored the shadowy confines of the Haunted Mansion have seen Leota “Lee” Toombs Thomas—or at least the likeness of her face. She appears as Madame Leota, the disembodied head that speaks from inside a crystal ball.

Leonard H. Goldenson

“Leonard was hugely successful on the one hand; painfully modest on the other. He was the kind of guy who drove a car several years out-of-date.”—Ted Koppel, former Nightline anchor

Tony Anselmo

“I’ve watched Donald Duck cartoons a million times and my whole life I wanted to work for Disney. Pending natural disaster, I expect to be doing Donald the rest of my life.” —Tony Anselmo

Ray Watson

Ray first got involved with Disney in the mid-1960s when he was asked to meet with Walt to discuss EPCOT, the “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,” which was still just a dream in Walt’s imagination.

Irwin Kostal

In 1982, while conducting the re-recording of music for Fantasia, originally conducted by Leopold Stokowski, Irwin quipped, “I’m not just wearing Stokowski’s straitjacket, I’m also wearing Mickey Mouse’s.”

Barton “Bo” Boyd

Bo oversaw one of the longest periods of sustained growth in Disney merchandising history, with initiatives such as Licensed Merchandise, Walt Disney Records, and, in Publishing, the start of Hyperion Press and a line of Disney magazine products.

Rolly Crump

“Rolly has a knack for bringing out the best in others. Trusting their talent, he encourages artists to push their creativity to the limits. It’s a rare creative person who can let others run with the ball.” —Disney Concept Designer John Horny

Jim Henson

It wasn’t until The Muppet Show debuted in 1976, starring Kermit and the egotistical and hilariously outspoken Miss Piggy, that the Muppets became a favorite of fans of all ages.

Bonita Granville Wrather

At her husband’s side during the construction and operation of the Disneyland Hotel, Bonita officiated over the groundbreaking and dedication of the world-famous Dancing Waters show.

Jack Wrather

“My father had the notion that business should be fun. He had more fun with the Disneyland Hotel than with any other investment.” —Chris Wrather