Evan Joyce Guilford-Blake

Evan Guilford-Blake, a brilliant playwright, novelist, and force of nature, died on November 13, 2024. He was 77.

Evan began his creative career as an actor, but it was his passion for storytelling that ultimately defined his life and career. His plays were—and continue to be—produced worldwide.

His remarkable talent earned him nearly 50 playwriting awards, including the prestigious Eamon Keane Award in Ireland. He was also a two-time winner of the Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival competition. His prose and poetry appeared in numerous print and online publications. Readers and audiences appreciate the depth and humanity of his work.

Evan lived in Metro Atlanta for 24 years, and before that, in Chicago. But he always considered New York City home.

He leaves behind his wife of 24 years, Roxanna Guilford-Blake, and their beloved rescue dogs: Buddy, a Great Pyrenees, and Ella, a Jack Russell Terrier.

Over the last few years, Evan faced significant health challenges, including congestive heart failure and dementia. Losing his vision was a particularly cruel blow for a man whose primary passion was reading and writing.

Honoring his wishes, there will be no service. Those wishing to pay tribute to his memory are encouraged to read one of his works and support their local theatres.

Evan’s legacy as a powerful storyteller endures. His memory lives on through the stories he created and the lives those stories touched. As he said in a 2015 interview, “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.”