Colleagues mourn past AAHOA chairman ‘JK’ Patel
FORMER AAHOA CHAIRMAN Jayantilal “JK” Patel passed away on Oct. 28 at the age of 85. Family, friends and colleagues remembered Patel for his professional achievements and personal warmth.
After immigrating to the U.S. at age 38 with his wife and two young children, Patel purchased his first hotel in Aiken, South Carolina, in 1979. He went on to develop, own and operate numerous properties across the region and later founded North Point Hospitality in Atlanta.
During his tenure as AAHOA chairman from 1996 to 1997, Patel focused on expanding the association’s reach among Indian American hoteliers through town halls and educational seminars nationwide, AAHOA said. Under his leadership, AAHOA built a stronger foundation for collaboration between hotel owners and franchisors, paving the way for fairer and more transparent partnerships that continue to shape the industry.
AAHOA leaders extended their condolences to the Patel family and all who knew him, recognizing his influence on generations of Indian American hoteliers.
“JK Patel’s journey from Kisumu, Kenya, to becoming a pioneering hotel owner in the Southeast is an inspiring story of dedication and vision,” said AAHOA Chairman Kamalesh “KP” Patel. “His leadership, foresight and commitment to our community leave a lasting legacy.”
By Sreedevi N R