Dexter Scott King, Son of Civil Rights Leader Martin Luther King Jr., Dies at 62
Dexter Scott King, the younger son of the late civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, passed away on Monday at the age of 62. The King Center in Atlanta announced that his death was caused by prostate cancer.
Leah Weber King, his wife, shared that he peacefully passed away in his sleep at their home in Malibu, California. Despite his battle with this terrible disease, Dexter showed immense bravery and determination until the very end.
Born on January 30, 1961, in Atlanta, Dexter King was named after the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father began his ministry. Tragically, he was only seven years old when his father was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1968.
Reverend Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of the King Center, expressed her heartbreak over the loss of another sibling. In a statement, she said, “Words cannot express the heartbreak I feel from losing another sibling. I’m praying for strength to get through this very difficult time.”
A Legacy in the Making
Dexter King followed in his father’s footsteps by attending Morehouse College in Atlanta. At the time of his passing, he held the positions of chairman of the King Center and president of the King Estate.
In addition to his involvement in civil rights advocacy, Dexter King was also an actor. He portrayed his father in the 2002 television movie “The Rosa Parks Story,” showcasing his talent and dedication to preserving his father’s legacy.
Reverend Al Sharpton, founder and president of the National Action Network, expressed his deep sorrow upon hearing the news of King’s passing. He highlighted how Dexter turned the pain of losing his father at such a young age into activism, dedicating his life to advancing the dreams his parents had for their children and future generations.
Fondly Remembered and Survived By
Dexter King was preceded in death by both his parents, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 and Coretta Scott King in 2006, as well as his sister Yolanda, who passed away in 2007. He leaves behind his loving wife of 11 years, Leah Weber King, his sister Bernice King, his brother Martin Luther King III, his niece Yolanda Renee King, and other beloved family members.
The passing of Dexter Scott King is a deep loss for the civil rights community and the nation as a whole. His commitment to carrying on his father’s work and his personal achievements will forever be remembered and celebrated.
In Conclusion
Dexter Scott King’s untimely passing at the age of 62 has left a void in the hearts of many. As the son of renowned civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., he demonstrated unwavering courage in his fight against prostate cancer. His contributions to the civil rights movement and his dedication to preserving his father’s legacy will be forever cherished.
The world mourns the loss of this beloved son, brother, husband, and leader. Dexter Scott King’s memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the positive change he brought to society. May he rest in peace.
.
