Andy Griffith ` ` created an aura of reality on the screen , '' Barbara Walters says . Griffith ` ` was prepared for the day he would be called up to his Lord , '' his wife says . He ` ` warmed the hearts of Americans everywhere , '' President Obama says . Film director Ron Howard : Griffith 's ` ` pursuit of excellence ... shaped my life ''
Andy Griffith `` created an aura of reality on the set , '' Barbara Eden says . Griffith `` was prepared for the day he would be called Home to his Lord , '' his wife says . He `` warmed the hearts of Americans everywhere , '' President Obama says . Film director Ron Howard : Griffith 's `` pursuit of excellence ... shaped my life ''