Credit: Instagram
Michael Kelcourse, the longtime butler of Patricia Altschul and beloved guest star on Southern Charm, has died at the age of 71.
Just weeks after Patricia, 83, revealed in an emotional Instagram post that Michael had suffered a second stroke and encouraged her fans and followers to send cards for his October 13th birthday, it has been confirmed that he passed away on Tuesday.
“It is with a heavy heart that I share Michael Kelcourse died on October 22 in Sarasota, Florida due to complications related to a spinal cord injury and stroke,” read a post shared by Luzanne Otte on CaringBridge. The post was titled, “RIP Michael Kelcourse: 10•13•53-10•22•24.”
“In the years following Michael’s February 2021 spinal stroke, he remained extraordinarily good natured about the cruel twist of fate. As hope of recovery dwindled here, Michael focused on blessings there. A profound inspiration for all who crossed his path,” Luzanne wrote. “Despite relatively constant disappointment from an unending stream of medical complications related to spinal cord injury, the only time I ever witnessed Michael with spirits down was when he started hospice care in June.”
According to Luzanne, who previously dated former Southern Charm cast member Thomas Ravenel, 62, Michael, who became a paraplegic after his first stroke, had been faced with symptoms of osteomyelitis, a bone infection, earlier this year.
“Last night, Pat and I exchanged happy memories of Michael (AKA ‘the most stable relationship I’ve ever had,’ joking about her longest marriage being 15 years and spending 18 years with Michael),” she continued. “We laughed and agreed that the only thing that would make Michael happier than a prodigious amount of Petrossian filling his belly and a lap full of fan mail? A bed full of dogs. How Michael missed all the dogs and what joy he showed after a visit with a service dog.”
After revealing that Patricia’s pug, Chauncey, had died just days before Michael, Luzanne went on to share details about the final weeks of Michael’s life.
“Death began knocking harder on Michael’s door in early October, at which time he suffered a debilitating stroke. It paralyzed his right side and without the ability to speak,” she revealed. “His left hand and mental faculties remained intact. In Michael’s final week, he was surrounded by loved ones reading the kind words written by hundreds of beloved fans in birthday cards. Thank you to all who took the time to raise him up in prayer and kindness. What greater gift than to die knowing you are loved and your life will be remembered.”
Moments ago, Patricia also took to her Instagram page to post a tribute to Michael.
“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,” wrote Patricia.
She 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.”
“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,” she added.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Michael’s loved ones during this difficult time.
