Who Is Barbara Bray Edwards? Everything You Need to Know About Andy Griffith’s Ex-Wife

Barbara Bray Edwards is often remembered as the first wife of legendary actor Andy Griffith, but she was much more than just a famous spouse. A talented singer, actress, and performer, Barbara played a significant role in Andy Griffith’s early career while also leaving her own mark on the entertainment world.

Born on August 17, 1926, in Wilson, North Carolina, Barbara grew up with a love for music and the arts, eventually attending the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she met Andy Griffith. Their love story, marriage, and eventual divorce remain an essential part of Andy’s journey, but Barbara’s life was filled with her own accomplishments and personal milestones.

This article delves into her early life, marriage, career, family, and lasting legacy.

Quick bio

Early Life and Education

Barbara Bray Edwards was born into a loving family in North Carolina. Though details of her childhood remain largely private, it is known that she had a passion for the performing arts from a young age.

Her passion led her to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she pursued music and performance studies. It was during her time at UNC that she met a young Andy Griffith, a fellow student with a shared love for acting and music.

Their shared artistic ambitions became the foundation of a strong early relationship, ultimately leading to their marriage.

Barbara Bray Edwards and Andy Griffith’s Marriage

Barbara and Andy tied the knot in 1949, shortly after Andy graduated from UNC.

• They initially settled in Goldsboro, North Carolina, where Andy worked as a high school music teacher.

• Barbara supported Andy as he pursued a career in entertainment, even as they faced early struggles.

• Together, they adopted two children—Andy Samuel Griffith Jr. (Sam Griffith) and Dixie Griffith.

As Andy’s career took off, Barbara remained his biggest supporter, helping him navigate the early years of Hollywood success.

However, as fame and career pressures grew, their marriage faced challenges, eventually leading to their divorce in 1972, after 23 years together.

Despite their separation, Barbara’s role in Andy Griffith’s rise to stardom remains undeniable.

Barbara Bray Edwards’ Career in Entertainment

Though Barbara is primarily known for her connection to Andy Griffith, she had a successful career of her own in music and entertainment.

Accomplishments:

• Gifted soprano singer with a remarkable voice

• Part of the Santa Lucia singing group, where she gained recognition

• Briefly appeared on The Andy Griffith Show

While she ultimately chose family over fame, her musical talent and presence in the arts were well known in entertainment circles.

Barbara Bray Edwards’ Children

Andy Samuel Griffith Jr. (Sam Griffith)

• The adopted son of Barbara and Andy Griffith

• Struggled with personal challenges, including addiction

• Sadly passed away on January 17, 1996, at the age of 37

His passing was a devastating loss for the Griffith family.

Dixie Griffith

• The adopted daughter of Barbara and Andy Griffith

• Chose to live a private life away from Hollywood

• Maintains a low profile, avoiding public attention

Unlike her father and brother, Dixie has embraced a quiet and peaceful life.

Barbara Bray Edwards’ Life After Andy Griffith

Following her divorce from Andy Griffith in 1972, Barbara built a new life for herself.

• In 1975, she married Michael St. Clair, marking a fresh chapter.

• However, her second marriage was tragically short, as she passed away in 1980 at the age of 53.

Despite her early passing, Barbara’s legacy continues through her children, contributions to the arts, and role in Andy Griffith’s journey.

Andy Griffith’s Legacy and Passing

Andy Griffith, the legendary actor, comedian, and musician, passed away on July 3, 2012, at the age of 86.

• Best known for The Andy Griffith Show (1960–1968) and Matlock (1986–1995)

• Became a beloved American TV icon

• Left a lasting impact on television and music

Though he remarried after his divorce from Barbara, her influence on his early career and personal life was significant.

Barbara Bray Edwards’ Net Worth

Barbara’s exact net worth is unknown, as she largely stayed out of the public eye after her divorce. However, during her marriage to Andy Griffith, she was part of a high-profile entertainment household.

Her true legacy, however, lies not in wealth but in her contributions to music, her role in Andy’s success, and her dedication to family.

Final Thoughts

Barbara Bray Edwards may be best remembered as Andy Griffith’s first wife, but she was so much more:

 A talented singer and performer
 A supportive partner during Andy’s rise to fame
 A devoted mother
 A private yet influential figure in Hollywood history

Her life and legacy remain an essential part of Andy Griffith’s journey and the history of American television and entertainment.

Conclusion

Barbara Bray Edwards was more than just Andy Griffith’s first wife—she was a talented performer, a devoted mother, and an important figure in his early career. From her love for music and acting to her role as a supportive partner during Andy’s rise to fame, Barbara’s impact was undeniable.

Though she eventually stepped away from the spotlight, she remained a pillar of strength for her family. Her life was marked by artistic passion, resilience, and dedication to her loved ones. Even after her divorce from Andy Griffith, she continued to live with grace and independence, finding a new path for herself.

While her early passing in 1980 was a tragic loss, her legacy endures—not only through her children, Dixie and Sam, but also in the foundational support she gave to Andy Griffith’s legendary career.

Barbara’s story is a reminder that behind every great star, there are often unsung heroes—people like her, who quietly shape lives and inspire greatness. Her influence lives on, and she will always be remembered as an important part of Andy Griffith’s journey and the world of entertainment.