Alice Franklin died on May 24 surrounded by family in San Rafael, Calif. She was 99 years old.

Alice and her late husband, Ed Franklin, settled on the Vineyard in the early 80’s moving from Darien, Conn. Living in Vineyard Haven for over 40 years, Alice was known for her abundant kindness, huge heart and generosity.

She made a career out of helping those in need. She was an avid supporter of the Meals On Wheels program, and a fixture at the Vineyard Haven Library, helping with their volunteer program shelving books until she was in her early 90s. Her weekly stops at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital to help with the front office filing reinforced her place in the community.

An accomplished tennis player, Alice could be found brushing the snow off the courts in early spring and late fall. She was a prolific reader with fabulous sense of humor and a twinkle in her eye right up until the end.

Often seen walking the Ramble Trail behind her house or exploring any of the Land Bank properties, Alice was intrepid. A model of grace and civility, she forged an enlightened path for her children. She will be missed.

Alice is survived by her daughter, Marian Garfolo with husband John and children, Julian and Madeline; sons Douglas Harlocker, with wife, Genevieve and son, Finley; and Chris Harlocker with wife Susan and children, Sam and Amelia; and Eileen Harlocker, with children Morgan and Tom Jr.; extended family through Ed Franklin, grandchildren Wendy, Holly, and Johnny Goyert; Ed’s son, Peter Franklin and wife Cara with children Sarah and Nate; and Jan Franklin and daughter, Jennifer; and over a dozen great grandchildren.