Howard Jacobs, an HIV-positive AIDS activist and advocate for youth, social services and people living with disabilities, died November 11 from liver cancer, LGBT POV reports. He was 45.

Jacobs served as deputy for West Hollywood City Councilmember Jeff Prang for many years, continuing his services as a rent stabilization commissioner. He also served as chair of the board of West Hollywood–based AIDS service organization Being Alive.

“Howard was smart, sensitive, fearless and unyieldingly committed to everything he believed in,” Prang said in a statement. “He believed deeply in West Hollywood and left an indelible mark on policies and programs of this city.”