I am going to throw a few names into the mix here. They are some of my favourite guitarists across all genres, and all are higly recommended for a listen if you haven't heard anything by them:
Albert Lee - country. He is a legend - the finest country guitarist I know - check out Country Boy and the Speechless album.
Tommy Emmanuel - fingerstyle. He is just so amazing, especially live.
Martin Taylor - jazz. a true master - again if you get the chance to see him live by himself, you must.
Al Di Meola - he rarely comesup in these forums, but he is one of my absolute favourites
Birelli Lagrene - excellent jazz player
Vinnie Moore - Mind's Eye is one of the best neo-classical shred albums - really melodic
The Hellecasters - multi-talented
Mark Knopfler - a real master of his craft - not as flashy as he used to be, but his tone and feel for the song is second to none.
Nick McCabe from The Verve
George Benson
Adam Jones from Tool
There are a few to hopefully get people talking. If any one can recommend people who might be similar or better than these guys, please let me know. These forums should be about expanding people's knowledge rather than just slagging off everyone's opinions.
