Dexter Scott King, youngest son of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., has passed away at 62 following a battle with prostate cancer. His death was confirmed by both his family and the King Center.
Leah Weber King, Dexter’s wife since 2013, shared in a statement that Dexter passed away peacefully in his sleep at their home in Malibu. She paid tribute to his enduring strength and resilience, noting, “He gave it everything and battled this terrible disease until the end. He faced this hurdle with bravery and might.”
Martin Luther King III, Dexter’s brother, expressed his profound grief in a statement. “My brother, Dexter Scott King, has passed away. The sudden shock is devastating. There are hardly words to express this moment of sorrow. We ask for prayers and thoughts for our family, particularly for Leah Weber, during this time,” he conveyed.
Dexter King’s life was marked by his dedication to preserving and furthering his father’s legacy. A graduate of Morehouse College, he took on significant roles within the King family’s endeavors. He served as chairman of the King Center, an institution dedicated to the advancement of the civil rights movement and the legacy of his father. Additionally, he was the president of the King Estate, overseeing the management and preservation of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s intellectual property and legacy.
Beyond his administrative roles, Dexter was known for his advocacy and public speaking, often addressing issues of justice, equality, and nonviolence, principles that his father famously championed.
Dexter King’s life, though deeply connected to his father’s legacy, was also marked by his own personal journey and challenges. He navigated the complexities of living in the shadow of a global icon while striving to make his unique impact on the world.
The King family has shared that Dexter had no children. His passing represents not just a personal loss for the family but also a symbolic one for the wider community that continues to draw inspiration from the King legacy.
This story is still developing. Further details and updates will be provided as they become available. Dexter Scott King’s life and contributions to his father’s legacy will be remembered and honored as the world reflects on his passing.