01/22/2026
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of one of our founders, Ravi Patel, in Vadodara, India on January 21, 2026.
Ravi’s vision, leadership, and values formed the foundation of SREE Hotels and shaped countless lives along the way. His influence extended far beyond our company to everyone and every community he touched.
Guided by the pillars of faith, family, friends, and community, Ravi lived a life of service and purpose. From helping found the Asian American Hotel Owners Association, to advocating for fair treatment of Asian Americans in the hospitality industry, to leading fundraising efforts for the expansion of the Hindu Center of Charlotte, Ravi was always ready, willing, and able to lead.
His impact on Charlotte’s hospitality and tourism landscape is equally remarkable. During his tenure with the Convention Authority and the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority, Ravi played a key leadership role during the development of some of the city’s most iconic destination assets, including the Charlotte Convention Center, Spectrum Center, and the NASCAR Hall of Fame.
While words cannot fully capture the depth of his influence, Ravi was a true leader, mentor, and friend to so many. His legacy will endure through the lives he shaped and the values he embodied: be present, lead with integrity, and always lend a helping hand.
Ravi is survived by his wife, Ranjan Patel; daughter Nisha Quill and son-in-law Zack Quill; son Samir Patel and daughter-in-law Hema Patel; and his beloved grandchildren, Asha, Liam, and Zea Quill, and Sohan Patel.
The family plans to hold funeral services in India later this weekend and will remain there for a short time following. A celebration of Ravi’s extraordinary life will be planned in Charlotte upon their return.
“Every major industry has its pioneers, and for hospitality, Ravi Patel was ours. Just as Hugh McColl transformed banking and Johnny Harris reshaped development, Ravi elevated hospitality with vision, discipline and heart. He leaves an enduring legacy grounded in faith, family and community. Charlotte is better because of him.” --Former Charlotte Mayor and Governor of NC, Pat McCrory