Composer Richard M Sherman, who wrote songs for Disney film classics such as Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang has died aged 95 in Beverly Hills, leaving behind a rich legacy of musical creativity and innovation.

Sherman partnered with his late brother Robert, and together they won two Oscars in 1965 for their work on Mary Poppins, solidifying their place in the annals of cinematic history.

Some of the brothers’ best-known scores include the Jungle Book’s Trust in Me and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’s Truly Scrumptious, showcasing their versatility and talent across a range of genres.

His death was announced in a statement by Disney, which said Sherman passed away “due to age-related illness” at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike.

The Sherman brothers were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2005 and received the US National Medal of the Arts in 2008, underscoring their significant contributions to American culture and the entertainment industry.

The Aristocats, Bedknobs and Broomsticks, and the Winnie the Pooh shorts were among other Disney productions to feature their words and music, leaving an indelible mark on generations of audiences.

The brothers were portrayed in the 2013 film Saving Mr. Banks, which told the story behind the making of Mary Poppins, further solidifying their status as legendary figures in the world of entertainment.

Their catchy and energetic song “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” became a pop hit, entering the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965, further cementing their place in popular culture.

Across his 65-year career, Sherman became part of Walt Disney’s “inner circle of creative talents”, the entertainment company said, showcasing his lasting impact on the Disney legacy.

He was born in New York City on 12 June 1928 and won three Grammy awards and received 24 gold and platinum albums, the Disney statement added, highlighting his exceptional musical prowess and achievements.

His service to the arts industry also led to a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring his contributions to music and film.

As reported by US media, the Sherman brothers wrote more than 150 songs at Disney, including scores for the 1961 film Parent Trap, which had a new lease of life in 1998 starring a young Lindsay Lohan, solidifying their enduring impact across generations.

Sherman continued to play an active role producing musical scores in his advanced age. In 2023, he wrote a new song with composer Fabrizio Mancinelli for Disney Legend Andreas Deja’s animated short film Mushka, showcasing his continued passion for creating music.

Sherman is survived by his wife Elizabeth Sherman, his children, and grandchildren, leaving behind a lasting legacy both personally and professionally.

His funeral will take place on 31 May in California, where friends, family, and fans will gather to pay their respects to this iconic figure in the world of music and film.