Evan Guilford-Blake
Evan Guilford-Blake, the celebrated playwright and novelist, passed away on November 13, 2024, at the age of 77. Born in Madison, Wisconsin, on December 25, 1946, and residing in Atlanta, Georgia, Guilford-Blake’s life was a testament to the power of storytelling. His works resonated with audiences worldwide, earning him critical acclaim and a lasting legacy.
Guilford-Blake’s journey began in acting, but his true calling was writing. His plays, brimming with depth and humanity, have graced stages across the globe, continuing to captivate audiences even after his passing. His talent garnered him numerous accolades, including nearly 50 playwriting awards. Among these are the prestigious Eamon Keane Award in Ireland and two victories in the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival competition. Beyond the stage, his prose and poetry found homes in various publications, both print and online, further solidifying his reputation as a gifted storyteller.
Though he lived in Metro Atlanta for 24 years, and prior to that in Chicago, Guilford-Blake always considered New York City his true home. He is survived by Roxanna Guilford-Blake, his wife of 24 years, and their cherished rescue dogs, Buddy, a Great Pyrenees, and Ella, a Jack Russell Terrier.
Evan Guilford-Blake Gallery
In his later years, Guilford-Blake faced considerable health challenges, including congestive heart failure and dementia. The loss of his vision was a particularly poignant struggle for a man whose life revolved around the written word. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no formal service. Those wishing to honor his memory are encouraged to experience his work, either by reading his plays, novels, or poetry, or by supporting their local theaters.
Guilford-Blake’s impact on the world of storytelling is undeniable. His legacy lives on through the narratives he crafted and the countless lives they touched. True to his own words from a 2015 interview, he sought not a physical monument, but a remembrance rooted in the enduring power of his work: “I don’t want a headstone: waste of time and money. I’d like to be remembered though, as having written things that made — and will make — a difference in people’s lives.” His wish, undoubtedly, will be fulfilled.
He believed his stories would be his lasting monument, a testament to a life dedicated to the art of words. Evan Guilford-Blake’s contribution to literature ensures his place among the storytellers who shape our understanding of the human experience.