Howard Davis, a prominent Long Beach area businessman and leader in the managed healthcare industry, has died at 89.

Universal Care, the local health maintenance organization started by Davis, has served members throughout California since its founding in 1983.

“He loved his community and the team of dedicated professionals who helped him create a company with a heart to care for vulnerable populations in California,” said Davis’ son Jay, who serves as Executive Vice President of Brand New Day, the Medicare special needs plan of Universal Care.

“He dedicated himself to making sure that his company would care for its clients like family. “

Davis was born in Montreal and moved to Los Angeles when he was 15.  He was a U.S. Army veteran and served as a trustee to Musical Theater West and an ambassador to the Long Beach City College Foundation.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Elaine, his four children, Marc, Jeff, Jay and Laura, along with twelve grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Sunday at Pacific View Memorial Park and Mortuary in Corona Del Mar.