Rodney Dillard has issued a statement on today’s passing of TV icon Andy Griffith, who died at his home this morning at 86 years old.
Dillard appeared on six episodes of Griffith’s television show, as one of the Darling Boys, along with his brother Doug, Mitch Jayne and Dean Webb.
Dillard remembered his friend thusly…
“Andy Griffith became more than an icon. He represented American family values and has given comfort and hope in these uncertain times. He gave The Dillards (The Darlings) an opportunity to be part of this. Andy was kind, generous and patient with an inexperienced group of pickers from the Ozark Mountains. Andy Griffith’s impact on the world will last forever.”
Also remembering Andy’s kindness today is Maggie Peterson, who played the role of Charlene Darling on the show.
“The passing of Andy leaves me so saddened. It feels like the presence that kept us steady in life is now gone. The Darling family was treated with such respect on the show. These could have been ridiculous characters without Andy’s respectful reaction to us.
Everyone will truly miss him. Thank God we have those beautiful episodes to keep us company. He enhanced my life and I will miss him so.”
The bluegrass world always had a friend in Andy Griffith, and will surely join in mourning his passing.
