Roll Call Tribute

Clifford Wayne Guillet 

December 11, 1933 - January 11, 2025 

Clifford (Cliff) Wayne Guillet, 91, passed away peacefully at his home in Altamonte Springs, Florida, on January 11, 2025, with his beloved wife of 59 years, Sandra, by his side.

Cliff was deeply committed to his community and played a consequential role in shaping Central Florida. He served as the Executive Director of the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council from 1973 to 1992, leaving a lasting legacy in the region.

A Korean War veteran, Cliff’s dedication to public service began in the U.S. Air Force. His assignments in the Philippines and Japan sparked a lifelong passion for travel. Cliff visited more than 100 countries and territories, collecting stories and experiences that enriched every aspect of his life. His most treasured travel companion was Sandra, and together they shared countless adventures, including riding out three major earthquakes in three different foreign countries. Family trips to exotic destinations like Africa and India will be a continual source of happy memories.

Following his Air Force service, Cliff pursued studies in Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and Texas A&M University. While working for a regional planning organization in southeast Texas, Cliff was offered the opportunity to lead the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council, an agency composed of elected and appointed officials that reviewed large scale developments in Orange, Seminole, Lake, Osceola, Brevard, and Volusia Counties. During Cliff’s tenure at the Council, Central Florida experienced unprecedented growth, largely spurred by the opening of Walt Disney World and the advancements at the Kennedy Space Center. Between 1973 and 1992, the region’s population more than doubled, increasing by 1.1 million people. Cliff contributed to numerous transformational projects including the expansion of Orlando International Airport; the Orlando Arena, multiple Florida Hospital campuses; and dozens of other significant developments including retail centers, marinas, office complexes, and major residential communities such as Waterford Lakes and Heathrow.

After retiring in 1992, Cliff remained dedicated to growth management issues, serving on the board of the Florida Audubon Society and working as a land use mediator and expert witness. In retirement, he also embraced his artistic talents, creating unique woodworking pieces and intricate stained glass art. These works, which grace many homes, serve as enduring reminders of his creativity and the joy he found in his craft.

Born and raised in Eunice, Louisiana, Cliff proudly carried his Cajun heritage with him even as life led him away from his birthplace. He cherished the vibrant customs, rich history, and distinctive flavors of his upbringing. His love for Acadian culture—its music, traditions, and especially its food—was something he passed on to his children, ensuring a deep connection to their roots. Louisiana held a special spot in his heart, not only as the foundation of his identity, but also as the place where he met Sandra, the love of his life, in New Orleans. Their shared history in this part of the world became a cornerstone of their life together, enriching their journey as a couple and as a family.

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Cliff’s unconditional love was a constant source of strength and comfort for his family. He was an inspirational role model whose encouragement profoundly influenced his children’s personal and professional achievements. His boundless compassion extended to all, including animals, a value he instilled deeply in his children and grandchildren. The family’s fondest memories will undoubtedly involve his infectious smile and unwavering kindness.

Cliff was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Mae, and his sister, Eugenia “Jeannie” Chapman.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra; daughter, Nicole Martz; son-in-law, Frank Martz; son, Andre’; daughter-in-law, Heather; and granddaughters, Autumn, Lily, and Jolie.