The Southern Charm matriarch and her son, Whitney Sudler-Smith, paid tribute to Michael Kelcourse, who passed away this week.
Shortly after it was confirmed that Michael Kelcourse had passed away, Patricia Altschul and Whitney Sudler-Smith remembered him in emotional tributes.
"In Loving Memory of Michael Kelcourse," Patricia wrote on Instagram Wednesday, Oct. 23 following the news of his passing. "It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Michael, who left us yesterday morning in Sarasota. More than just a devoted butler, he was a trusted friend, confidant, and member of our family for over 20 years."
The Southern Charm matriarch continued, "Michael’s time on Southern Charm endeared him to many, as his humor and kindness quickly made him a fan favorite. Over the past two weeks, he was deeply touched by the incredible number of cards and well-wishes from fans. I’ve been told there were hundreds, and they brought him immense joy during his final days."
Patricia added in her tribute to Michael: "I will be devoting this week to remembering Michael. I know he meant so much to so many of you, as he did to us. He will be greatly missed."
Whitney also paid tribute to Michael, writing on Instagram, "RIP Michael Kelcourse, aka 'Michael the Butler,' a member of the family and a true legend. You will be missed."
Southern Charm's Michael Kelcourse Passes Away
Michael's death was confirmed on a page run by CaringBridge that was created to share updates on Michael in his journey after he first suffered from a spinal cord stoke back in 2021. His passing comes as Patricia recently revealed that he had suffered from another stroke weeks before he died.
Details on Michael Kelcourse's Life and Career
Michael was a longtime member of Patricia and Whitney's extended family. She wrote about meeting Michael, who would later come to work for back in 2004, in her 2017 memoir, The Art of Southern Charm. She wrote in the book that hiring him was the "best thing I could have done."
Michael later rose to fan favorite status during his time on Southern Charm. He served repartee and tasty cocktails, specifically Patricia's favorite: martinis.
Whitney opened up about Michael in an interview with The Daily Dish in 2018, saying, "Michael, he's devoted to mom. He's the nicest guy in the world. He's invaluable to my mom because he helps with her coterie of animals."
Patricia shared what it's like to have Michael in her life and their professional relationship on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen in 2019, noting that "we respect and admire each other."
While Michael left the Altschul home in Charleston amid his health issues, he remained close to Patricia and Whitney, with both of them sharing updates on their extended family member and sharing moments from trips to visit him. Michae also made a cameo on Season 9 of Southern Charm.
