My Memories of The Andy Griffith Show [VIDEO/POLL]

Legendary television icon Andy Griffith passed away today at the age of 86. Best known as Andy Taylor and sheriff of the make believe town of Mayberry. With his passing, a part of American TV history has been laid to rest.Who could forget all the beloved characters like Barney Fife (Don Knotts),  Goober (George Lindsey), Gomer (Jim Nabors), Aunt Bea (Francis Bavier) and of course Andy's TV son Opie (Ron Howard)? They entertained American TV audiences from 1960-1968.

I loved the show for the clean wholesome values it tried to teach and the characters we all came to love as part of our family. It seems as though we could really relate to the characters in this show like Barney Fife, I mean what little town in the USA doesn't have a Barney. Andy had a remarkable TV and movie career that spanned generations throughout the years. Who could forget the TV show 'Matlock' one of my favorite lawyers who could always make the guilty come clean. Andy also was a gifted singer who went on to record albums and a gospel album during the Matlock days.

Andy underwent quadruple heart bypass surgery in 2000. Did you know that in Raleigh, North Carolina, there is a statue of Andy and his TV son 'Opie' played by Ron Howard. Griffith was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by George W. Bush in 2005. Country stars Rascal Flatts paid tribute to Andy Griffith's TV show in a song called Mayberry several years ago.

A true pioneer who's legacy will  live on in TV reruns for generations to come. Rest in Peace!

Check out this YouTube video of Brad Paisley who had the honor of having Andy appear in his video "Waitin' on a Woman."