William Thomas Cliatt

Some people leave behind accomplishments. Others leave behind a legacy. Will left both.

Born on October 15, 1950, in Atlanta, Georgia, Will was the eldest son of Billy Cliatt and Gladys Brizendine Cliatt. He grew up alongside his brothers, Michael and Richard. From an early age, he developed a strong sense of responsibility, loyalty to his country, and determination that would define his life.

After graduating from Woodward Academy, he went on to Georgia Military College. During college, he volunteered to serve his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War before beginning a distinguished career as an Air Traffic Controller with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Aviation was more than a profession—it was one of his greatest passions. Throughout his career, Will worked numerous high-profile events, including Sun ’n Fun, The Great Georgia Airshow, the 100 Years of Flight Celebration, Delta Air Lines Fly-In, NASCAR, and the RBC Classic, to name a few. Will helped ensure the safety and success of each event while making unforgettable experiences possible for thousands of aviation enthusiasts.

After nearly 40 years of dedicated service, Will retired in 2011, having served as an Air Traffic Controller, Front Line Manager, and Operations Manager. He approached each responsibility with professionalism, integrity, and a work ethic that earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues.

Outside of work, Will found his greatest joy on the water. Boating was one of his lifelong passions, and he proudly served as Commodore of the Two Daze Pleasure Yacht Club. He loved spending time aboard his 34-foot Sea Ray Sundancer with his wife and two daughters, creating memories that became some of his family’s most treasured moments.

Will made his home in Griffin, Georgia, with his wife, Dianna Marie Cliatt, whom he cherished as both his partner in life and in faith. The two met while working together as Air Traffic Controllers within the FAA. With a smile, Will often joked, “I chased her until she caught me.”

Together, they faithfully served the Lord through mission work and were devoted members of McDonough Christian Church. Many who knew them were familiar with “The Jesus Shed,” a ministry through which funds are raised to support mission work around the world. Will was passionate about growing in his relationship with Jesus Christ. Among the men’s ministry, he was known as a man who found his identity not in this world but through Christ, His Lord and Savior.

Will loved his family and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. Shannon, and her husband, Paul Myers, blessed him with four grandchildren, Christian, Charlotte, William and Catherine, who affectionately called him “Big Papa.” Some of their favorite memories were spending sunny days on the lake, where Big Papa proudly served as Captain, and the grandkids loved riding around in the back of Big Papa’s truck. He also shared a special bond with his younger daughter, Kristi Cliatt. In addition to their shared love of aviation, they enjoyed traveling the world, cheering on the Dallas Stars, embracing new foods and experiences, and creating memories that will be cherished forever.

Will took immense pride in both of his daughters. His diligence, perseverance, and professionalism inspired them to pursue demanding careers of their own—Shannon as a Physician and Kristi as an Air Traffic Controller. Few conversations with Will ended without him proudly sharing their accomplishments with anyone willing to listen.

Those who knew Will, will remember his quick wit, his can-do attitude, and his remarkable ability to find humor in nearly every situation. He was fiercely protective of those he loved and never hesitated to stand beside his family and friends. His strength, kindness, generosity, and steadfast faith left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His laughter, advice, and steady presence will be missed more than words can express.

Will was preceded in death by his parents, Billy Cliatt and Gladys Brizendine Cliatt, and his brother, Michael Cliatt.

Surviving him are his loving wife, Dianna Marie Cliatt, and his daughters, Kristi Cliatt and Shannon Myers, along with her husband, Paul, and his cherished grandchildren, Christian, Charlotte, William, and Catherine. He is also survived by his brother, Richard Cliatt, and wife Silvana, and countless friends, fellow church members, colleagues, and loved ones whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

While our hearts ache in his absence, we find comfort in knowing that Will’s greatest hope has become his eternal reality, and we rejoice in the promise that he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior.

“I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Psalm 27:13

Will/ Dad/ Big Papa will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A Celebration of Life honoring William Thomas Cliatt will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 2:00PM at McDonough Christian Church.

In lieu of flowers we are requesting donations be made to: McDonough Christian Church (memo: Will Cliatt - The Jesus Shed). All donations will support local & global missions funded by The Jesus Shed.