Remembering Dexter Scott King: A Legacy Of Courage And Commitment

Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, has died at the age of 62. "He transitioned peacefully in his sleep at home with me in Malibu," Leah Weber King, his wife of 11 years, said in a statement. "He gave it everything and battled this terrible disease until the end. As with all the challenges in his life, he faced this hurdle with bravery and might." The King Center confirmed Monday that King died after being diagnosed with prostate cancer. King, a civil rights activist, is survived by his wife, sister Dr. Bernice King, brother Martin Luther King III, and niece Yolanda Renee King.

A graduate of Morehouse College, like his father, he became well versed in intellectual property law. He also portrayed his father in a small role in the 2002 film The Rosa Parks Story. At the time of his death, he was chairman of the King Center and president of the King Estate. His life was a testament to the values instilled in him by his parents, exemplifying strength, resilience, and a commitment to justice.

Born in Atlanta on January 30, 1961, King was named for the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father served as first pastorate. He was only 7 when his father was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee. He recalled the moment vividly during an interview, stating that he was watching TV with his brother when a news report announced that their father had been shot, marking the beginning of a chaotic and traumatic period in their lives.

King's mother passed away nearly 18 years ago, on his 45th birthday. He would have turned 63 next week. Together with his wife, an entrepreneur and former broadcast journalist, they built a life of love and support, mirroring the values that his parents had exemplified. The King Center stated on Monday, "Together they built a life of love, support, and unconditional love, much like that of Dexter's mother and father."

King's sister, Bernice King, expressed her grief on Monday, stating, "Words cannot express the heartbreak I feel from losing another sibling. I'm praying for strength to get through this very difficult time." Their eldest sister, Yolanda, had passed away in 2007. In a heartfelt message, Martin Luther King III said, "The sudden shock is devastating. It is hard to have the right words at a moment like this. We ask for your prayers at this time for the entire King family."

Civil rights activist the Rev. Al Sharpton shared his condolences, stating on social media, "May he RIP, may his legacy live." A memorial service will be announced at a later time to honor Dexter Scott King's life and contributions.

Update 1/22/24, 2:43 ET: This article has been updated with additional information.