Marc Davis, 80

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WARWICK, R.I. – Marc Sanders “Sandy” Davis, of Warwick, died Aug. 11, 2022, after a short illness. His family was by his side throughout.

Born in Providence, Marc graduated from Classical High School in 1959 and earned a bachelor’s degree from Providence College in 1963 and an MBA from the University of Rhode Island in 1968.

Marc married Helen Hirsch, his high school sweetheart. Together ever since, they just celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary.

Marc proudly met his military obligation. He served in the Army as a Battery Commander and Aerial Observer over the DMZ, deployed to Korea from 1964-1965.

Marc was an exceptional entrepreneur, leading United Camera/UNICOM for 54 years through many rounds of evolution, successfully pivoting a retail camera business into a cutting-edge IT services company. Marc cared deeply about his employees and worked mightily to always put them first. A generous and kind mentor, Marc took joy in the long tenure and personal and professional successes of the many who worked together alongside him. We’re all still watching the birdy.

Marc had a special relationship with his grandmother Etta Jagolinzer, in whom he instilled a lifelong passion for fly fishing during their time at the family farm. Nothing made Marc happier than to pass along his fishing enthusiasm and expertise, especially to the many children in his life. Marc found special enjoyment and peace on the Wood River. He was an environmental advocate who worked to protect natural trout fishing habitat.

Marc was also an avid skier and world traveler with Helen, with a particular love for New Zealand. He held multiple leadership roles at Temple Torat Yisrael throughout his life, including spearheading the funding and building of a new temple.

An 18-year survivor of pancreatic cancer, Marc’s positive attitude, laugh and love for family prevailed. He lived life to the fullest.

Marc is survived by his wife Helen (Hirsch); his three children Michael Davis (Liselle Gottlieb), Lisa Davis and Andrew Davis (Amy K. Johnson); and his siblings, Clare Yaffe (Morris Yaffe) and Robert Davis (Paula Sue Grieve). Marc took great joy in his five grandchildren Isaac, Jacob, Samuel, Rebecca and Benjamin.

The family extends their gratitude to Drs. Dennis Cruff, Howard Safran and Ned Gutman and Marc’s entire care team over the last 18 years. Thank you for your skill and care and the many high-quality years Marc enjoyed. Marc also benefited from expert and compassionate care from the whole team at The Miriam Hospital and Hope Hospice. The family is extremely appreciative.

Memorial donations may be made to the Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Association, 203 Arcadia Road, Hope Valley, RI 02832; Dr. Howard Safran’s Oncology Research fund at Rhode Island Hospital c/o The Lifespan Cancer Institute, 139 Point St. Providence, RI 02903; and Temple Torat Yisrael, 1251 Middle Road, East Greenwich, RI 02818.

obituary, Marc Davis