Dexter Scott King, the youngest child of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr has reportedly passed away after a battle with prostate cancer. He was 62-years-old.
According to WSB-TV, his wife Leah Weber King, released a statement and shared, “He transitioned peacefully in his sleep at home with me in Malibu. 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.” His sister Bernice King also spoke on his passing. “Words cannot express the heart break I feel from losing another sibling. I’m praying for strength to get through this very difficult time,” Dr. Bernice King said.
RELATED: President Biden Honors Martin Luther King, Jr — “Today We Must Recommit To Honoring His Vision”
Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, has lived a life dedicated to continuing the legacy of his parents. As an activist, author, and a leader in the civil rights movement, Dexter has made significant contributions to the ongoing fight for equality and justice in America.
Born on January 30, 1961, in Atlanta, Georgia, Dexter grew up surrounded by the influence of his father’s activism. He witnessed firsthand the sacrifices and struggles his parents endured in their pursuit of a more equitable society. This upbringing played a vital role in shaping his commitment to social justice and his desire to carry forward the work his parents started.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Dexter became actively involved in the civil rights movement at a young age. He participated in protests, demonstrations, and marches, advocating for equal rights for all. Dexter’s dedication to the cause only strengthened after his father’s tragic assassination in 1968, as he felt an even greater responsibility to carry on his father’s work.
In 1986, Dexter founded the Dexter Scott King Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting non-violent social change. The foundation focuses on education, leadership development, and community outreach to empower individuals and communities affected by social inequality. Through various programs and initiatives, the foundation aims to inspire, educate, and mobilize the next generation of civil rights leaders.
In addition to his activism, Dexter has also made significant contributions as an author. In 1997, he released his memoir, “Growing Up King: An Intimate Memoir.” In this book, Dexter provides a personal account of his life growing up in the King family and the impact his parents had on him. The memoir offers readers a unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement and serves as a reminder of the importance of continuing the fight for justice.
RELATED: National Geographic Debuts Trailer For Emmy® Award-winning Anthology Series, Genius: MLK/X Ahead Of Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Dexter Scott King’s commitment to civil rights extends beyond his activism and writing. He has also been involved in various media projects, including producing and directing documentaries that shed light on social issues and promote understanding and empathy. His work in the entertainment industry allows him to reach a broader audience and promote important conversations around race, equality, and justice.
