At the heart of Mayberry was Sheriff Andy Taylor, portrayed by Andy Griffith. Griffith, 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 in 1926, brought a calm, wise demeanor to the character, embodying the decency and common sense that defined the show. His passing in 2012 marked the end of an era, but his legacy endures through the timeless messages of kindness and simplicity.