Those who are kind are often underestimated, with many taking their compassion for stupidity. Those who are truly wise understand that kindness is a virtue, no matter what people say.

Jim Nabors was a man who was as rich in kindness as he was in success. An actor best known as Gomer Pyle in television shows like The Andy Griffith Show and Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C., Nabors kept his good heart, no matter how famous he became.

"I was always very happy with it," said Nabors of the character of Gomer Pyle during an interview with The News. "I loved doing the show...it was a great break for me...and Gomer was a marvelous character."

While many audiences find Gomer a source of entertainment and laughter, Nabors was adamant that Pyle was much more than he initially appears to be.

"He was such a nice person," said Nabors. "Everybody thought he was dumb...he was only naive. He was never dumb. He only saw good in other people, which most people think is stupid."

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By contrast, Nabors not only kept the same kindness his character had, but he was also a very humble man. "I've never thought that I was all that special," he said. "I feel that I was very fortunate, very lucky to have been able to do things where other people find enjoyment. But I never took that as making me anything special. It sounds rather Pollyannaish. But I swear it's true. Those (stars) who take themselves very seriously and think they're God's gift to the world somehow or another are missing the whole thing. I really feel for them."

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