Rolly Crump Obituary

Rolly Crump was an American animator and designer noted particularly for his work as a Disney Imagineer. Rolly Crump died at his home in Carlsbad, California, on March 12, 2023, at the age of 93.

Rolly Crump, who was born in Alhambra, California, worked at Disney until the 1970s when he left to design for other theme parks such as Knott’s Berry Farm and Busch Gardens. Rolly Crump got his big break at Walt Disney Co. when he was 22 years old, in 1952.

Those at the animation studio used to tease him about being an outcast. Crump was once proudly described as “a diamond in the rough” by a superior.

Rolly Crump was known for his eccentric beatnik style and pop art approach, which could be seen in his art projects, such as a series of drug-themed posters.

Rolly Crump’s colourful pop art design sensibility can be seen in the original design for It’s a Small World and its iconic clock, which he created using sketches from Disney artist Mary Blair for the New York World’s Fair.

Rolly Crump is survived by his wife, three children and three grandchildren.