Television Broadcast Legend Andy Griffith, June 1, 1926 – July 3, 2012

Once and always known as "America's Favorite Sheriff", the star and host of "The Andy Griffith Show", the man who was also known as "Andy Taylor" from 1960 to 1968, has passed away. Andy's life came to a peaceful end this morning, July 3rd, 2012 at around 7AM.

According to WITN News, "Dare County Sheriff Doughtie said the family stated that Andy died at seven this morning, peacefully, at his home and that Andy has been laid to rest on his beloved Roanoke Island." "The actor's death was first confirmed by former UNC President Bill Friday and later by the sheriff."

WITN News also relayed the following information: " The sheriff had confirmed earlier that an ambulance was called to the home this morning. A family statement says the actor died with his wife Cindi at his side. "Andy was a person of incredibly strong Christian faith and was prepared for the day he would be called Home to his Lord," said his wife in a statement. "He is the love of my life, my constant companion, my partner, and my best friend. I cannot imagine life without Andy, but I take comfort and strength in God’s Grace and in the knowledge that Andy is at peace and with God.”
Griffith was born in Mount Airy and attended UNC Chapel Hill where he earned a degree in Music. His first job out of college was an English teacher at Goldsboro High School."

North Carolina Governor Beverly Perdue,U.S. Senator Kay Hagan, and U.S. President Barack Obama commented briefly on Andy's passing. See the full WITN News Piece for more. 

ABC News announced Andy Griffith's death. Embedding has been disabled by request of ABC. 

Shortwave America now gives you video from various sources to pay tribute to Andy Griffith



The Andy Griffith Show remains one of the most popular TV sitcoms in US television history. The infectious theme music (Instrumental with whistling solo) had lyrics most people never got to hear. Andy Griffith sings this catchy tune.



Youtube user, iParatrooper, has a whole collection of  full episodes from The Andy Griffith Show.

In this interview by the Archive of American Television, Andy Griffith talks about the early days of "The Andy Griffith Show"



Here is an Andy Griffith interview on the old Matlock character done by the Archive of American Television



For those who never saw Matlock, or want to remember Andy by watching a short opening clip from the show, here it is:



Matlock Season 1, Episode 1 Pilot, Part 2 shows us Andy's skill that he was so successful for.



Shortwave America sends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Griffith. Rest in peace, Andy, you finished well!