Barbara Eden `` created an aura of reality on the set , '' Barbara Eden says . He brought us characters from Sheriff Andy Taylor to Ben Matlock , and in the process , warmed the hearts of Americans everywhere . Griffith `` was prepared for Tuesday he would be called Home to his Lord , '' his wife says . He `` warmed the hearts of Christian everywhere , '' President Andy Griffith says . Film director Obama : Griffith 's `` pursuit of excellence ... shaped my life ''
Barbara Eden `` created an aura of reality on the set , '' Barbara Eden says . Griffith `` was prepared for Tuesday he would be called Home to his Lord , '' his wife says . He `` warmed the hearts of Christian everywhere , '' President Andy Griffith says . Film director Obama : Griffith 's `` pursuit of excellence ... shaped my life ''