Betty Lynn, the actress cherished by fans as Thelma Lou from The Andy Griffith Show, passed away on Saturday at the age of 95. The Surry Arts Council announced her death on Sunday, stating that she died peacefully after a brief illness.
Born Elizabeth Ann Theresa Lynn, she was a third-generation native of Missouri and began her entertainment career at a young age, performing in USO Camp Shows during World War II. Notably, she is believed to be the only American woman to have traveled the perilous Burma Road during the war, as noted by the Surry Arts Council.
Lynn received special commendation for her contributions during the war and was later honored as an honorary colonel in the American Legion. In 2009, she participated in the North Carolina Triad’s inaugural Honor Flight, visiting the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., alongside veterans.
In her acting career, Lynn appeared in films with Hollywood legends such as William Holden and Bette Davis, as well as in numerous popular television shows. However, she is best remembered for her role as Barney Fife’s sweetheart in the fictional town of Mayberry. Despite Thelma Lou’s better options, she remained devoted to Deputy Barney P. Fife, played by the talented Don Knotts.
Lynn appeared in 26 episodes of The Andy Griffith Show from 1961 to 1966, spanning the show’s first five seasons and a few episodes of Season 6. When Knotts left the series after five seasons, Thelma Lou was written out as well, though she returned in the TV movie A Return to Mayberry in 1986 to marry Barney. She also played Sarah, Ben Matlock’s secretary, during the first season of Matlock, another series featuring Andy Griffith.
In 2007, Lynn made Mount Airy, North Carolina—modeled after Griffith’s hometown—her own home after attending the annual Mayberry Days festival and falling in love with the community. She was warmly embraced by the town, which presented an annual “You’re the Cats!” Award in her honor, recognizing individuals for their contributions to the festival.
In 2016, as she celebrated her 90th birthday, NC Governor Pat McCrory and Lt. Governor Dan Forest honored her with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine award, the highest civilian honor in North Carolina.
Upon hearing the news of her passing, Elinor Donohue, a friend and fellow actor, remarked, “Betty was a dear and loving friend to all who knew her. Her talent will continue to bring joy to her fans via The Andy Griffith Show.” Karen Knotts, daughter of Don Knotts, expressed her sadness on Twitter, saying, “There was no one more devoted to fans than she. Such a loving and kind soul. We’ll remember and love you always, Betty.”
A private burial service will be held in Culver City, California, with a memorial service to be announced later. In lieu of flowers, donations in Lynn’s memory can be made to the Betty Lynn Scholarship Endowment (for students pursuing careers in dance or acting) or the Barbara and Emmett Forrest Endowment Fund (supporting the Andy Griffith Museum and Mayberry Days), both through the Surry Arts Council. Donations may also be sent to Holy Angels Roman Catholic Church in Mount Airy.