Andy Griffith Already Laid to Rest as President Obama Pays Respects, Tributes Keep Pouring In

Beloved sitcom star was buried on the grounds of his farm on Roanoke Island

By Natalie Finn Jul 03, 2012 9:15 PMTags
Andy GriffithMatthew Peyton/Getty Images

Someone had his affairs in order.

Andy Griffith, who died this morning, has been buried on the grounds of his farm on North Carolina's Roanoke Island, according to Twiford Funeral Homes. A small group of family and friends held a private service beforehand.

But though Griffith was swiftly transported to his final resting place, the tributes to the Andy Griffith Show and Matlock star haven't ceased since news of his passing at 86 broke just hours ago, with everyone from James Van Der Beek to President Barack Obama paying their respects.

"Michelle and I were saddened to hear about the passing of Andy Griffith this morning," Obama said in a statement. "A performer of extraordinary talent, Andy was beloved by generations of fans and revered by entertainers who followed in his footsteps. He brought us characters from Sheriff Andy Taylor to Ben Matlock, and in the process, warmed the hearts of Americans everywhere. Our thoughts and prayers are with Andy's family."

"RIP The great Andy Griffith #Mayberry #AFaceInTheCrowd," tweeted Tom Arnold, mentioning, in addition to Griffith's claim to TV fame, what was the actor's most memorable film role—the charlatan Larry "Lonesome" Rhodes in Elia Kazan's A Face in the Crowd.

"I was lucky enough to work with Andy Griffith on a DC episode," tweeted James Van Der Beek. "He was legend around those NC studios, and did not disappoint."

"Everyone pour out some of your big orange drink for Andy Griffith," noted Patton Oswalt.

And the tweets keep pouring in:

Brad Paisley: "Andy Griffith entertained the world. He improved our lives, and I was so proud to work with him call him a friend. Love you Andy. Go rest."

Keith Olbermann: "Very sad to read of Andy Griffith's passing, a warm figure from tv and an underrated actor especially in the chilling 'A Face In The Crowd.'"

Henry Winkler: "RIP the forever in our memory Andy Griffith."

John Legend: "I lived for Matlock when I was a kid. Perhaps I was an odd kid."

Whoopi Goldberg: "Sad note Andy Griffith has passed away see the movie , a face in the crowd you will know he wasn't just Mayberry. Condolences to his family."

The Band Perry: "We'll miss you, Andy Griffith...thank you for all the laughs and memories."

Frank Caliendo: "Retweet if you've caught yourself whistling (humming,etc.) the theme to the 'Andy Griffith Show' today. #Classic."

Melissa Joan Hart: "RIP Andy Griffith!"

Tia Mowry: "RIP Andy Griffith :( I grew up to u and u kept me entertained..."

Richard Marx: "RIP Andy Griffith....thanks for the memories."