“Ms. Betty” Alice Elizabeth Radics
Community Hero
In Paradise for Good – December 4, 2022
Ms. Betty aka “The Cookie Lady” lived a gloriously animated Key West Conch life. She worked many years at the Pier House, beginning in the mid-1980s. Ms. Betty’s true call of duty in this life came from her work as a dietary aide at the Lower Keys Medical Center. Her passion for compassion shined and brightened the halls and every room in the facility. She loved helping co-workers and health care professionals and was supremely committed to the patients and their families. Her boundless energy focused on providing strength, encouragement, laughter, entertainment, and assistance — above and beyond the important fulfillment of the patients’ dietary needs. This judgeless angel never ever turned a blind eye to anyone in need — no matter their station nor circumstances. Her charity work was tireless and her fundraising extraordinary.
In her memory, Ms. Betty’s friends created the Ms. Betty Hospitality & Culinary Scholarship Fund at the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys. The scholarship is awarded annually to individuals desiring to study in the Hospitality or Culinary Management programs at the College of the Florida Keys, with a preference for individuals graduating from or previously graduated from Key West high school. Betty’s passion and commitment to exceptional service will live on through the students who receive her scholarships. Learn more at CFFK.org/msbetty.
Thank you, Ms. Betty, for Leaving a Legacy in Key West and the Florida Keys.