The Life of Andy Griffith - Presented by Michelle Gibbons

June 17, 2026, 12-1:30 pm

12-12:30 pm Lunch | 12:30-1:30 pm Program

KAM Isaiah Israel, 5039 South Greenwood Avenue, Chicago

Oftentimes, when walking into a small, quaint town where everyone knows each other, one might say, "This reminds me of Mayberry." For actor Andy Griffith, it was a town he called "home" for several years.

Actor Andy Griffith was known for his down-to-earth and likable personality through the characters he portrayed. Griffith was best known for his roles as Andy Taylor in The Andy Griffith Show from 1960 to 1968 and as Ben Matlock in the legal drama Matlock from 1986 to 1995. He began his prominent career with the 1957 movie A Face in the Crowd and received two Tony Awards. Born on June 1, 1926, to a blue-collar family in North Carolina, Griffith's parents saved up money until he turned three, living with relatives until they could afford a home. Without a bassinet or a crib, baby Andy slept in the dresser drawers. Growing up, Griffith was a shy child. But falling in love with the arts, music, and drama, he broke out of his shell and landed a role in his high school play. He also performed in the high school band, playing the trombone.

Support for this program has been graciously provided by The Albert and Lucille Delighter and Marcella Winston Foundation, a Supporting Foundation of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago.