The King family mourns the loss of Dexter Scott King, the esteemed son of civil rights icons Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Dexter, aged 62, passed away on January 22, 2024. The King Center formally announced his passing, revealing that Dexter’s death came after a valiant struggle with prostate cancer.

Leah Weber King, Dexter’s wife of eleven years, shared that he passed peacefully in his sleep at their home in Malibu, California. She reflected on his courageous fight against the disease, emphasizing his resilience and bravery in facing life’s challenges.

Dexter was the second son and third child of his legendary parents, joining siblings Yolanda King, Martin Luther King III, and Rev. Dr. Bernice King. Following the passing of his mother Coretta in 2006 and sister Yolanda in 2007, his death marks another profound loss for the King family.

Rev. Dr. Bernice King, CEO of The King Center, expressed her profound grief at losing another sibling, seeking strength to endure this challenging time. Martin Luther King III echoed the sentiment, describing the news as a sudden shock and requesting prayers for the King family.

Named after the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father served as pastor, Dexter led a life marked by his family’s legacy. He was an accomplished lawyer, actor, author, and film producer. Notably, he released the Emmy-nominated animated movie “Our Friend Martin” in 1999 and authored “Growing Up King: An Intimate Memoir” in 2003.

Dexter’s dedication to preserving his father’s intellectual property was evident in his roles as chairman of The King Center and president of the King Estate. A graduate of Morehouse College, he was also recognized for his staunch veganism and advocacy for animal rights, aligning his dietary choices with his non-violent beliefs.

The King Center’s statement also highlighted Dexter’s striking resemblance to his father, a visual reminder of the historic legacy of the King family.

Ntianu Obiora
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Ntianu Obiora is a versatile creative professional with over a decade of experience in publishing, marketing, communications, and digital strategy. She is the Online Editor at THEWILL DOWNTOWN