Ray Paladen Chatters, 61, who has worked for more than 39 years as a barback and DJ at West Hollywood’s Mother Lode, has died.
Chatters has also worked as a DJ at various other clubs in Los Angeles.
The cause of Chatters’s death has not been determined. However, it was known that in February 2018 he suffered a heart seizure while on a plane from New Orleans to Los Angeles. The plane landed in Minneapolis where Chatters underwent several days of treatment that prompted more than 100 followers on Facebook to wish him well.
Chatters is the second popular employee of Mother Lode to have died this year. The death of Charlie Kinsley, 47, of a heart attack in February prompted customers and fellow employees, including Chatters, to host an event memorializing him
Chatters studied hospitality at Santa Monica College, graduating in the class of 1975. In addition to his work as a DJ, he held various day jobs. His Facebook page identifies only one relative. WEHOville will update this story as more information becomes known.
I started going into the Mother Lode before it was the “Lode”. Back then it was Rascalls (sic?), God, that was in 1978!! RIP, Ray
Isn’t this the second death of the young Mother Lode bartender in a month or so?
Still so hard to believe. I only knew Ray casually as a member of the DJ community, but he was always, ALWAYS, the nice guy with the welcoming smile. No doubt he’s now spinning the hits in heaven.
Ray and I have known each other since the late 70’s and have kept in touch to now. There’s only a handful of old skool DJs left in LA/Hollywood. Now it’s gotten fewer. I’ll always remember you my dearest friend ❤️.
Ray Chatters
Rest well my friend. Wow sense 1977 where did the time go. I will always miss you. You’re spinning for Jesus now ❤️👍
My heart is heavy! My condolences go out to Rays family and friends! RIP Ray!
I remember Ray… he was always nice with a hello and a smile… so sorry to read this…. rest in peace
Such a loss for us his friends and for the community at large. His positive spirit will be missed.
Cherry was my best friend and best man at our wedding. He was planning to visit us in Florida in two weeks for a well-deserved vacation. It’s important to note, especially on Memorial Day, that he was a proud member of the US Navy. I am pretty much in shock and can’t believe we’ve lost such a wonderful human being.
Ray was a good friend and fellow DJ with my other half, Monty Monroe, who passed away 19 years ago. When ever I saw Ray on the street or at the Mother Lode he asked how I was doing. He will be missed by many at the Mother Lode where he played I believe since 1980 or before.
Does no one know what the hell happened? This was a MAN with DIGNITY.
Cherry had a daughter. Has anyone spoken to her?