Jim Nabors Has Passed Away

Sad news to report. Jim Nabors has passed away. He was 87.

Jim Nabors, who starred as Gomer Pyle on The Andy Griffith Show and on his own sitcom before retiring the wide-eyed, countrified character at the height of his popularity, has died. He was 87.

Nabors died at his home in Hawaii on Wednesday night, his longtime partner told Indiana’s WTHR. A native of Alabama, Nabors also recorded more than two dozen albums with a rich, operatic baritone voice that surprised those who were used to hearing Nabors exclaim “Gawwwleee!” with a Southern twang on television.

For many years, Nabors sang “Back Home Again in Indiana” during the opening ceremonies for the Indianapolis 500.

So sad.

Breaking #WTHR. I can confirm that Jim Nabors has passed away. We lost a great friend and legend. #indy500

— dave calabro (@calabro13sports) November 30, 2017

#BREAKING – Hawaii News Now has confirmed the death of “Gomer Pyle” star Jim Nabors. He died early this morning at the age of 87. R.I.P. pic.twitter.com/PV4pS0nirq

— George Pennacchio (@abc7george) November 30, 2017

#BREAKING: TV producer Phil Arnone confirms actor and Sylacauga native Jim Nabors (aka: Gomer Pyle from The Andy Griffith Show) has passed away. He was 87-years-old. @WBRCnews

— Lauchlan Smith (@lauchlan_s) November 30, 2017

Jim Nabors, who was a big part of the Indy 500 tradition, died today. Gomer Pyle was such a great character.

— Doug Zaleski (@DougZaleski) November 30, 2017

RIP, and prayers for his family. He will be missed!