RALEIGH, N.C. (September 30, 2012)—Film director Ron Howard, who played Andy Griffith's son on television for eight seasons, remembers the actor as someone who taught by example that leadership requires not only confidence and hard work but also humility and humanity.

Howard made the comments in an audio presentation Sunday at "Mayberry Days," the annual celebration of "The Andy Griffith Show" in Mount Airy.

Howard played Sheriff Andy Taylor's son, Opie, from the ages of 6 to 14.

The event's organizers planned to surprise the crowd at a Griffith tribute with Howard's recording.

Howard said he'll always be grateful for the creative environment that Griffith established on the set.

Griffith, a native of Mount Airy, died July 3 at his Manteo home at the age of 86.