Edward “Ed” Moriarty who was among the first Cast Members to have been hired to open Walt Disney World Resort in 1971, has passed away. Ed had worked for Disney for over 20 years as a pioneer in the development as Vice President of Operations. He began his second career as President of Ron Jon’s Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach.
We found the following about his passing on Legacy.com
He believed in things that were bigger than himself, that success comes with working together, and that happiness was living up to your potential.
He loved his country and his community. He proudly served as a Marine and was instrumental in establishing Toys for Tots in Orlando, Florida. He often said, “Once a Marine, always a Marine.” He was very active in various charities and associations throughout his life, but most proud of being a Little League Baseball Coach and Indian Guide Chief.
He said that he was blessed to have worked for The Disney Company where he was among the first Cast members hired to open the Walt Disney World Resort in 1971. After 20 years with Disney, he retired and enjoyed playing golf and volunteering. Having “played enough golf,” Ed began a second career as President of Ron Jon’s Surf Shop in Cocoa Beach where he helped expand to new locations around the United States for over 14 years. Whether at Disney or Ron Jon’s, he took so much joy in building teams, inspiring them and winning together.
He is survived by the love of his life of 50 years, Jan Moriarty. They wanted to marry after their first date, but Jan’s Father said they should wait a month, so they did. He is also survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Michael and Amie Moriarty, daughter and son-in-law, Megan Moriarty Ferrara and Michael Ferrara, and four grandchildren: Edward William “EW” Moriarty, Cheney Moriarty, and twins Joshua and Reese Ferrara. Ed was extremely generous in life, and the happiness and support given his family was his greatest gift of all.dist Church, 315 Main Street, Highlands, North Carolina, 28741. Visitation will begin at 10:00 Am followed services at 11:00 AM. The family will also having a memorial service in Orlando, Florida in late January.
