Anybody who has stepped a foot into Friendly’s on Northampton Street knows who Alice Cundiff was. She had been the Manager there for many years, and her hard work led it to become one of the most profitable Friendly’s throughout the region. I had the privilege of knowing Alice for most of my life. When I was a little girl, I would go into Friendly’s with my grandfather nearly every day, and a couple of years later, my family and I moved on the same street as Alice. Every time I’d have practice at Ashley Reservoir, I would see Alice walking with her mother. She was the sweetest lady, and always smiled at everyone she saw.

In August 2013, I applied for a job at Friendly’s, and Alice immediately hired me. She taught me many things, especially good work ethic. She was the most kind, caring, and hard-working woman I knew. Emily Whitelock, a senior at Holyoke High who works at Friendly’s said, “I’ve known Alice for so long and to finally work for her, it was great. We wouldn’t always agree on something’s but at the end of the day she was a boss with the biggest heart out there and she really was a hard worker. She taught us all how to work hard for something that meant a lot.” She gave many teenagers the opportunity to work, while enjoying other activities such as sports, and focusing on school of course. “She taught me the values of hard work because her work ethic was off the charts. She worked hard day in and day out. It was awesome that she gave me the opportunity to work at Friendly’s and I know she has employed a lot of Holyoke through out her career. Everyone has a story about Friendly’s and Alice,” said Grace Hamel ’15, who had worked for Alice for over a year.

Alice’s former and current employees were like her second family. She spent so much time with all of them and she really got to know them very well. Her friends, family, the Friendly’s community, and especially the citizens of Holyoke will miss Alice dearly.

The Herald sends thoughts and well-wishes to the friends and family of Alice.