Michael Kelcourse, known to “Southern Charm” viewers as Patricia Altschul’s butler for 18 years, passed away Tuesday in Sarasota, Florida. He was 71.
Close friend Luzanne Otte confirmed Kelcourse’s passing through a statement on his Caring Bridge website, citing complications related to a spinal cord injury and stroke as the cause.
Kelcourse had retired from the Bravo reality series following an acute spinal cord stroke in February 2021 that left him paralyzed from the chest down. He subsequently moved to an assisted living facility in Florida.
Earlier this month, Kelcourse experienced a second stroke that left him partially paralyzed on his right side and unable to speak, though his mental faculties and left hand remained functional.
Patricia Altschul, who employed Kelcourse as her butler in Charleston, South Carolina, maintained a close relationship with him throughout his health challenges. She visited him in Florida last December, sharing photos of their reunion on social media.
Kelcourse celebrated his 71st birthday on October 13, just days before his passing. During his final week, he was surrounded by loved ones who read him birthday cards and messages from hundreds of fans.
Kelcourse maintained his characteristic good nature throughout his health challenges, focusing on blessings rather than setbacks. His spirits only declined when he entered hospice care in June.
Altschul and other loved ones plan to share memories of Kelcourse on social media in the coming weeks. His final Instagram post, dated October 2023, has become a memorial where fans continue to leave messages of condolence.
“Southern Charm” is an American reality television series that premiered on Bravo on March 3, 2014. The series focuses on several socialites living in Charleston, South Carolina as they navigate their personal and professional lives while trying to preserve their family names.
