Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, passed away at the age of 62 after battling prostate cancer.
Throughout his life, Dexter focused on shepherding his father’s legacy and protecting the King family’s intellectual property.
He was named after the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Alabama, where his father once served.
Dexter was the third of the iconic civil rights leader’s four children and was married to Leah Weber King since 2013.
His death has been a significant loss, and he will be remembered for his contributions to preserving his father’s legacy and the civil rights movement.
Early life and family
Dexter was born as the youngest son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.
He was named after the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Alabama, where his father once served.
Dexter was the third of the iconic civil rights leader’s four children. He was just seven years old when his father was assassinated in 1968
Dexter King children
At the time of his death, Dexter and his wife Leah had no children.
Contributions to preserving Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy
As an adult, Dexter focused on shepherding his father’s legacy and protecting the King family’s intellectual property.
He was involved in co-writing a book, Growing Up King: An Intimate Memoir, and even portrayed his father in a 2002 film.
Dexter’s career was intertwined with his father’s legacy, and he served as the chairman of The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change at the time of his death.
Battle with prostate cancer and passing
Dexter battled prostate cancer and passed away at the age of 62.
The King Center confirmed in a statement that the 62-year-old civil rights activist died after a long battle with the disease.
He transitioned peacefully in his sleep at home with his wife, Leah Weber King, in Malibu.
His older brother, Martin Luther King III, expressed deep sadness at the sudden loss and asked for prayers for the entire King family and, in particular, for Dexter’s wife, Leah.
Legacy and impact
Dexter’s legacy lies in his dedicated efforts to preserve and promote his father’s legacy and the civil rights movement.
His contributions to the King family’s intellectual property and his leadership as the chairman of The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change have left a lasting impact.
His work and commitment to his father’s legacy will be remembered and cherished for years to come.
Dexter’s life and legacy are a testament to his unwavering dedication to preserving his father’s work and the ongoing impact of the civil rights movement.
His passing is a significant loss, but his contributions will continue to inspire and educate generations to come.
FAQ
How did Dexter King honor his father’s legacy?
Dexter honored his father’s legacy by being actively involved in the promotion of civil rights and social justice causes, as well as by preserving and promoting his father’s teachings and philosophy through various initiatives and organizations.
What is the significance of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in the life of Martin Luther King Jr. and his family?
The Dexter Avenue Baptist Church was significant in the life of Martin Luther King Jr. as it was where he served as a pastor and became known for his oratorical preaching.
The church was also a central hub for the civil rights movement in Montgomery, Alabama.
Was Dexter King involved in the civil rights movement like his father?
Yes, Dexter was involved in the civil rights movement.
He, along with his siblings, has been active in continuing their father’s legacy and promoting civil rights and social justice causes.
What are some significant contributions of Dexter King to society?
Dexter, like his siblings, has made significant contributions to society by continuing the legacy of his father, Martin Luther King Jr.
He has been involved in various civil rights and social justice initiatives, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change.
What is the relationship between Dexter King and James Earl Ray?
Dexter publicly supported James Earl Ray’s efforts for a retrial, as he did not believe Ray was responsible for his father’s death.
The King family instead believed that the US Government conspired to assassinate Martin Luther King Jr.