– Dr. King’s son, Dexter, passes away at the age of 62
– Youngest son of Dr. King, Dexter, dies after 62 years.
The Death of Dexter Scott King: Remembering a Civil Rights Activist
News of the death of Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of Coretta and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., has spread rapidly today, leaving many to share memories and expressions of love for the King family. Dexter, a graduate of Morehouse College, followed in the footsteps of his father and older brother, Martin Luther King, III. It is with great sadness that we announce his passing at the age of 62.
A Personal Connection to the Civil Rights Movement
Peter Johnson, who had the privilege of working with Dr. King at the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), became very close to the King family. In an emotional interview, Johnson recounted how he watched Dexter and his siblings grow up, as they were often surrounded by those involved in the civil rights movement.
Johnson’s voice wavered as he took several breaks, but he brightened up as he reminisced about a red, shiny Mustang that he used to drive. He fondly remembers letting the King children sit in his lap as he gave them rides. Johnson, now a visiting lecturer at the University of North Texas at Dallas, was teaching a course on the history of the civil rights movement when he received the news of Dexter’s passing.
Remembering a Beloved Friend
Rev. Don Robinson, a family friend from Dallas, also shared his memories of Dexter. Robinson had a close bond with the King family, as Dexter’s eldest sister, Yolanda, was the godmother to Robinson’s son, Nigel. He first met Dexter in 1985 at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where he attended a sermon delivered by Bernice King. Robinson described Dexter as lowkey with a keen business mind, preferring to work behind the scenes rather than as a gifted speaker like his siblings.
Dexter’s book, “Growing Up King: An Intimate Memoir,” allowed him to connect with readers on a personal level. During a visit to Dallas, he signed books at Black Images Book Bazaar, a prominent Black-owned bookstore. Co-owner Emma Rodgers fondly remembers Dexter’s cool and collected demeanor, noting that he engaged with the audience in a warm manner.
A Message of Health and Self-Care
Throughout his life, Dexter was not only an advocate for civil rights but also for animal rights. He even portrayed his father in the television movie, “The Rosa Parks Story.” Dexter’s commitment to health and wellness led him to embrace vegetarianism and eventually become a vegan. His passing serves as a reminder of the importance of self-care.
Dallas County Commissioner John Wiley Price, who knew Dexter and his siblings well, stresses the need for Black men to prioritize their health. Prostate cancer, the cause of Dexter’s death, is preventable but often detected in later stages. Price expresses his support for the King family and urges everyone to take their health seriously.
A Life Cut Short, But Not Forgotten
Dexter Scott King leaves behind his wife, Leah Weber King, with whom he celebrated a decade of marriage in 2023. Born on January 30, 1961, Dexter experienced a bittersweet connection to his mother, as she passed away on his 45th birthday in 2006.
The death of Dexter Scott King is a significant loss for the civil rights community and those who admired his dedication to justice and equality. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations to fight for a better world.
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1. Dr. King’s youngest son, Dexter, dies at 62
2. Dr. King’s youngest son, Dexter, passes away at age 62.
