Lighthouse Financial co-founder Larry Bassett passed away on December 22, according to a statement from the company.

Bassett founded Lighthouse in 1987 after seeing a need for small business alternative financing that was not being met by other financial institutions. For more than 32 years, Bassett guided Lighthouse and mentored numerous people.

“Larry will be remembered as someone who always had a warm smile, kind word, and interesting story to share. We will forever remember him as an inspirational, devoted leader and, most importantly, a wonderful friend. Our deepest condolences go out to Larry’s family as they navigate the loss of their loved one,” added the statement.

A memorial will be held at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Greensboro, NC at 11 a.m., on January 11, 2020. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Greensboro Urban Ministry or Smile Train.