For over three decades, the Etheridge Senior Car Wash was a beloved institution in Birmingham's historic downtown Fourth Avenue business district. However, the evolving economy and staffing challenges have led to the closure of this family-owned enterprise, leaving a void in the community and the hearts of its loyal customers.

Preserving a Cherished Tradition: The Etheridge Family's Unwavering Commitment

A Legacy of Service and Craftsmanship

The Etheridge Senior Car Wash first opened its doors in 1993, founded by the patriarch of the Etheridge family, Willie T. Etheridge. The car wash was part of a larger network of family-owned businesses that included five barbershops, beauty salons, and a catering facility, all located within the historic Black business district of Birmingham. This vibrant hub, stretching from 15th to 18th streets North and from Rev. Abraham Woods Jr. Boulevard to Second Avenue North, was a testament to the Etheridge family's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to serving their community.

Weathering the Storms: The Etheridge Sisters' Resilience

After the passing of their grandfather in 2003, the car wash business was taken over by their mother, Felecia Etheridge-Dovi, until her untimely death in 2017. It was then that April and Ashley Pritchett, the granddaughters of Willie T. Etheridge, became the co-owners of the car wash, determined to carry on the family legacy. The sisters, who had grown up immersed in the family's businesses, were no strangers to the challenges of running a successful enterprise.

Adapting to a Changing Landscape

However, the evolving economic landscape and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic took a toll on the business. The sisters found themselves grappling with rising costs, a shortage of workers, and the need to adjust their operating hours. Despite their best efforts, the Etheridge Senior Car Wash was forced to close its doors on October 25th, 2022, leaving a void in the community and a bittersweet legacy for the Etheridge family.

Cherishing Memories and Relationships

The closure of the Etheridge Senior Car Wash was a poignant moment for the sisters, who had grown up with the business as a central part of their lives. "I'm thankful for all of our loyal customers who have supported our family and business throughout the years," said Ashley Pritchett. "It's been amazing to serve them, and I will always cherish the memories and relationships that we've built."

A Commitment to Community and Excellence

The Etheridge Senior Car Wash was more than just a business; it was a hub of community engagement and a testament to the family's dedication to quality and customer service. "Serving the community, helping people who were just getting back on their feet," said April Pritchett, "We've been going down there (to the car wash) since we were little. There's a lot of memories."

Bidding Farewell to a Beloved Institution

In the final days before the car wash's closure, longtime customers flocked to the business, seeking one last opportunity to experience the exceptional service and attention to detail that had become synonymous with the Etheridge name. "Every time I left … my car looked brand new," said Daijah Bell, a loyal customer of 10 years. "There was consistent attention to detail. I will also miss the community. You never know who you'll meet while there."

The Etheridge Legacy Lives On

While the Etheridge Senior Car Wash has closed its doors, the Etheridge family's legacy continues to thrive. The sisters' uncles, part of the well-known Birmingham Etheridge Family, continue to operate the Etheridge Brothers Barber Shops and the Etheridge Beauty & Style Shop, ensuring that the family's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the community endure.As the Etheridge sisters move on to new endeavors, they reflect on the lessons learned and the memories forged within the walls of the car wash. "My mom worked all the time," said April Pritchett. "Growing up, we went on family vacations with my aunt. We never went on family vacations with our mom for real. She didn't take a lot of pictures with her. I'm looking forward to doing all the things that my mother didn't get to do."The closure of the Etheridge Senior Car Wash marks the end of an era, but the family's legacy of service, craftsmanship, and community engagement will continue to inspire and uplift the people of Birmingham for generations to come.