Patricia Altschul is heading into the holiday season by remembering her late butler and longtime friend, Michael Kelcourse. The “Southern Charm” star shared an Instagram post honoring Kelcourse, featuring a throwback video from a past Christmas.
In the clip, Kelcourse is seen standing in front of a Christmas tree while showing Altschul how to make a large red holiday bow. During the exchange, Altschul asks if there is anything he can’t do, to which Kelcourse replies, “Fly.”
“Michael and I always had a wonderful time decorating for Christmas together…” Altschul wrote in the caption.
Patricia Altschul shares a favorite Christmas memory with Michael
The Instagram post drew a large number of responses from fans, many of whom commented on Kelcourse’s role in Altschul’s life and his appearances on “Southern Charm.”
“I love how you continue to keep his memory alive,” one fan commented. “It truly shows what a close bond that you had with him and that he was family to you.”
Other commenters referenced moments from the current season, including Altschul’s emotional scenes involving the loss of her dog, Chauncey. “Michael and Chauncey are decorating together this Christmas, I just know it,” one follower wrote.
Another fan referenced Kelcourse’s interactions with other cast members. “I thought about how excited Michael would have been for Madison,” the comment read. “I remembered Ms. Patricia sending him over to rub Cam’s feet. He is missed, I’m sure.”
Michael Kelcourse’s legacy on ‘Southern Charm’
Kelcourse died in October 2024, weeks after Altschul revealed he had suffered another stroke. She announced his passing on Instagram with a tribute.
“In Loving Memory of Michael Kelcourse,” she wrote. “More than just a devoted butler, he was a trusted friend, confidant, and member of our family for over 20 years.”
Altschul also shared that fan support meant a great deal to him near the end of his life. “Over the past two weeks, he was deeply touched by the incredible number of cards and well-wishes from fans,” she wrote. “They brought him immense joy in his final days.”
Her son, Whitney Sudler-Smith, also shared a tribute, calling Kelcourse “a member of the family and a true legend.”
In a 2018 interview with The Daily Dish, Sudler-Smith discussed Kelcourse’s role in Altschul’s life. “Michael, he’s devoted to my mom,” he said. “He’s the nicest guy in the world. He’s invaluable to my mom because he helps with her coterie of animals.”
Kelcourse worked for Altschul and her family for nearly 18 years before moving to Florida in 2021 after suffering a spinal cord stroke. Earlier this fall, Altschul revealed she is now searching for a new live-in butler. The role includes light cooking, chauffeuring, comfort with filming, making a proper gin martini, and loving animals.
