On the map it is called Mt. Airy, but to visitors and locals alike it is known as Mayberry, the fictional but all too real town that was featured on the Andy Griffith Show.
It was the town where Griffith grew up and the place he carried with him, said friend James Kemp. "He set an example for everyone," he said.
Kemp said Tuesday that the Griffith's death is a sad day for the town and for everyone with strong family values.
There are reminders of Griffith across this small town. There's Floyd's Barber shop, Wally's Garage, and even the Snappy Lunch restaurant that was mentioned on one of Griffith's shows.
"He's the hometown boy that made it big and never forgot where he came from," said Debbie Miles, who runs a souvenir shop on Main Street. Her shop was packed with tourists Tuesday. Most were already in town when they heard the news of Griffith's death.
Bonnie Dotson and her family were in the Andy Griffith Museum when they heard the news. "We just loved him," she said. Ransom Dotson said the important thing about Griffith was the type of shows he was involved in. "It was always something the entire family could watch and actually would tell you the right way to raise your kids."
Connie Lovell wipes away tears as she stood next to a life-sized bronze statue of Griffith just outside the museum. Lovell and her family moved to Mt. Airy from New Jersey last year. "It's because of him we're here." Lovell said when she came to town she found the values and attitude she found depicted on the "The Andy Griffith Show" and didn't want to leave. Today, after hearing the news of his passing, she said "Our hearts are broken and we are devastated."
A big Fourth of July celebration is planned for downtown Mt. Airy on Wednesday. Local folks expect part of the festivities will be a celebration of Andy Griffith's life. "He did so much for this town and we will never forget him, "said Debbie Miles.
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