Dexter Scott King, Martin Luther King Jr.'s Son, Passes Away at 62

The King Center has announced the passing of Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Dexter King died on January 22 at the age of 62 following a valiant battle with prostate cancer.

His wife of 11 years, Leah Weber King, shared that he passed away peacefully in his sleep at their home in Malibu. Leah Weber King, who has been Dexter's strongest supporter and best friend for 21 years, praised his courage in facing the disease.

Dexter Scott King's loss is deeply felt by his family. His sister, Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center, expressed her profound grief at losing another sibling, while his brother, Martin Luther King, III, described the shock and devastation at Dexter's sudden passing.

Born on January 30, 1961, in Atlanta, Dexter was named after the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father began his pastorate. He was a second-born son and was only seven years old when his father was assassinated in 1968. Dexter grew up in Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, attended Frederick Douglas High School, and followed in his father's footsteps to Morehouse College.

Dexter dedicated his life to preserving his father's legacy and protecting the intellectual property left behind. At the time of his death, he served as both Chairman of The King Center and President of the King Estate. His commitment to intellectual property law reflected his dedication to his family's legacy.

Dexter, known for his resemblance to his father, portrayed Dr. King in the 2002 television movie "The Rosa Parks Story." He initially moved to California to pursue a career in acting but later focused on his family's legacy.

Dexter and Leah Weber King, who is a New Orleans native, former broadcast journalist, entrepreneur, and consultant, married in a private ceremony in 2013. They shared a deep bond of love and support.

Dexter is preceded in death by his father (1968), mother (2006), and sister Yolanda (2007). He is survived by his wife Leah Weber King, sister Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King, brother Martin Luther King, III, and niece Yolanda Renee King.

The King family has requested privacy and will address the media in a press conference scheduled for January 23 at The King Center’s Yolanda D. King Theatre inside Freedom Hall. A memorial service will be announced later.

Tributes Pour in for Dexter Scott King

Tributes, remembrances, and condolences are being shared to honor the life of Dexter Scott King. Atlanta Council member Michael Julian Bond, who grew up with Dexter, expressed shock and sadness at his passing.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, the Atlanta City Council, the Georgia NAACP, and the Atlanta NAACP, along with Rep. Carl Gillard, chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, have all shared heartfelt messages recognizing Dexter's contributions and extending sympathies to the King family.