AAHOA Statement on Passing of Jayantilal “JK” Patel

October 29, 2025

ATLANTA, GA — Asian American Hotel Owners Association Chairman Kamalesh “KP” Patel has issued a statement on the passing of one of AAHOA’s Past Chairs, Jayantalil “JK” Patel, who passed over October 28, 2025, at the age of 85.

“JK Patel’s journey from Kisumu, Kenya, to becoming a pioneering hotel owner in the Southeast is an inspiring story of dedication and vision. During his tenure as AAHOA chairman from 1996 to 1997, he worked tirelessly to expand the association’s reach among Indian American hoteliers, hosting Town Halls and educational seminars across the country. He also laid the foundation for stronger, more collaborative relationships between owners and franchisors — an impact that continues to benefit the industry today. His leadership, foresight, and commitment to our community leave a lasting legacy.”

Patel immigrated to the United States at the age of 38 from Kenya with his wife and two young children. He purchased his first hotel in 1979 in Aiken, South Carolina, and he developed, owned, and operated numerous hotels throughout the Southeast. He was the founder of North Point Hospitality in Atlanta.

During his chairmanship of AAHOA, Patel focused on raising awareness of the association among Indian American hoteliers, with the goal of increasing membership among this community. He pursued an aggressive agenda of Town Hall Meetings and educational seminars, with sessions held throughout the country. In addition, as members wanted to improve their relationship with franchisors, the issue of fair franchising increasingly became a focus for AAHOA, and meetings were held with numerous brands. The groundwork was laid to enable the mutually dependent relationship between owners and franchisors to reach its full potential, benefiting both partners.

He continued his work after his chairmanship ended, traveling on delegations to India along with other AAHOA members and serving on AAHOA committees.

AAHOA extends its heartfelt condolences to the Patel family and all who were fortunate to know and work alongside him. His contributions will be remembered and honored for years to come.

AAHOA’s member-owned properties represent a significant part of the U.S. economy, with its 20,000 members owning 60 percent of the hotels in the United States and are responsible for 1.7 percent of the nation’s GDP. More than 1 million employees work at AAHOA member-owned hotels, earning $51.3 billion annually, and member-owned hotels support 4.2 million U.S. jobs across all sectors of the hospitality industry. AAHOA’s mission is to advance and protect the business interests of hotel owners through advocacy, industry leadership, professional development, member benefits, and community engagement.