Andy Griffith passes away at 86

Well, this isn’t exactly shocking news seeing as Andy Griffith was 86—nice run big guy—but it is very sad news.

Andy’s close friend, former UNC President Bill Friday, announced that he passed away this morning at his home in Manteo, North Carolina.

In addition to starring in Andy Griffith and the subsequent Mayberry R.F.D., he was a Grammy award-winning southern gospel singer.  Huh? He was!?

Of course, Andy also starred in the long-running series, Matlock (which the Hallmark Channel owes its existence to).

There’s a famous statue of Andy and Opie (played by Ron Howard) in Raleigh, North Carolina; if you’re in town, swing by and drop off some flowers!

Griffith was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by George W. Bush in 2005, which is the highest civilian award in the United States. It recognizes individuals who have made “an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.”

He received the award for playing a TV sheriff…of a very small town…with little to no crime… Ooooo La La Land — we love you!

Help celebrate Andy Griffith’s life by whistling along with us!