Patricia Altschul is keeping Michael Kelcourse’s memory alive.
In the days leading up to Christmas, the Southern Charm socialite took to Instagram to share a heartwarming tribute to her former butler/trusted friend, who died more than a year ago after suffering a stroke. Patricia posted a video of Michael standing in her festive foyer, handmaking a piece of Christmas decor at her request.
Patricia Altschul revisits her “wonderful time” with Michael Kelcourse
“You said you needed a bow,” Michael told Patricia as he pulled and twisted a piece of red ribbon.
“A big bow,” Patricia replied before highlighting her signature Christmas plushes. “Look at all our Steiff animals, how pretty they look.”
Patricia then panned the camera to the side table, showcasing her extensive collection of stuffed animals, figurines, and vintage tchotchkes. The maximalist, kitschy aesthetic was also evident in the nearby Christmas tree, which was adorned with multicolored string lights and random ornaments, including pink flamingos, a disco ball, a camel, and a small martini glass.
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“They’re so Christmas-y. Every year we have the Christmas animals out,” Michael added, as he completed the bow. “There we go.”
“Oh, how pretty!” Patricia said while admiring Michael’s work. “Well, that didn’t take long. Is there anything you can’t do, Michael?”
“I can’t fly,” he replied, causing Patricia to laugh.
She expanded on her and Michael’s special bond in the caption, writing: “Michael and I always had a wonderful time decorating for Christmas together…”
Michael Kelcourse retires as Patricia Altschul’s butler
Patricia hired Michael in the early 2000s after they were introduced through famed interior designer Mario Buatta. Around 2021, Michael suffered an acute spinal cord infarction, which led him to retire in Florida near his family. Patricia addressed the new chapter in the Southern Charm Season 8 premiere, emphasizing just how close she and Michael had become.
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“I’m still shocked by the whole thing, because he had been with us for 18 years,” she said in the 2022 episode. “My longest marriage lasted 15 years, so Michael is the most stable relationship I’ve ever had.”
Patricia Altschul announces Michael Kelcourse’s death
In the fall of 2024, Patricia confirmed Michael had died due to complications from the aforementioned spinal injury and stroke.
“In Loving Memory of Michael Kelcourse,” she wrote in an October 23 Instagram post. “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.
“Michael’s time on Southern Charm endeared him to many, as his humor and kindness quickly made him a fan favorite,” she continued. “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… He will be greatly missed.”
Get more details about Michael’s bond with Patricia and her son, Whitney Sudler-Smith.
