I saw this movie in 1977 when it first came out. I LOVE it and wish it would be shown at Christmas at least a few times. It has such marvelous actors: Maureen Stapleton, Ed Asner, Edward Winter, James Karen and more.
It's a very touching movie and rather sad, but still beautiful - if you've never seen it, try and do so (I think it might be available at Amazon) - it will reach your heart.