Richard Sherman, 95, the legendary composer behind beloved Disney songs such as “It’s a Small World” and Mary Poppins’ hits “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious,” “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” and “A Spoonful of Sugar,” passed away on Saturday, as announced by the Walt Disney Co. on its website.
He died in a Beverly Hills, California hospital. The cause of death was listed as an “age-related illness,” according to a Disney obituary.
Sherman was one half of the famous songwriting team “the Sherman Brothers,” alongside his late brother Robert Sherman. He was a significant figure within Walt Disney’s inner creative circle.
The Sherman brothers were recognized as some of the most prolific composers and lyricists of their era. They penned over 200 songs, received nine Academy Award nominations, won two Oscars and three Grammy Awards, and achieved 24 gold and platinum albums over their extensive careers.
“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 Walt Disney CEO Bob Iger.
Before his songwriting career, Sherman studied music at Bard College and served in the US Army, where he conducted an Army band and glee club in the early 1950s.
In 2005, the Sherman brothers were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Three years later, they were awarded the National Medal of the Arts at the White House.
Sherman was predeceased by his brother Robert Sherman in 2012.
He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Elizabeth, his son Gregory, and many other relatives. Plans for a public service were not announced.
