Atlanta, GA (1/22/2024) – In a somber announcement, The King Center reveals the passing of its Chairman and longstanding leader, Dexter Scott King, youngest son of the iconic Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Mrs. Coretta Scott King. Dexter Scott King, aged 62, succumbed to prostate cancer on January 22, 2024, peacefully transitioning in his sleep at his Malibu residence, as confirmed by his wife of 11 years, Leah Weber King.
Leah Weber King, Dexter’s steadfast companion, expressed the profound loss, stating, “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, Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center, conveyed the heartbreak of losing another sibling, seeking strength to endure this difficult time. Martin Luther King, III, expressed the devastating shock, asking for prayers for the entire King family.
Born on January 30, 1961, in Atlanta, Dexter Scott King inherited a legacy defined by his father’s profound impact on civil rights. At the age of seven, he faced the tragic assassination of his father in 1968. Following in Dr. King’s footsteps, Dexter attended Morehouse College after graduating from Frederick Douglas High School.
Dexter took on the responsibility of safeguarding his father’s legacy, serving as Chairman of The King Center and President of the King Estate. His dedication to intellectual property law and management aimed to protect and perpetuate his father’s work.
While humble about his striking resemblance to his father, Dexter showcased his love for the creative arts by portraying Dr. King in the 2002 television movie, “The Rosa Parks Story.” Despite initially pursuing a career in acting in California, family duty called, leading him to balance his artistic pursuits with his responsibilities to the King family legacy.
In a private ceremony in July 2013, Dexter married Leah Weber, a New Orleans native, former broadcast journalist, entrepreneur, and consultant. Together, they built a life of love and unwavering support.
Preceded in death by his father (1968), mother (2006), and sister Yolanda (2007), Dexter is survived by his devoted wife Leah Weber King, sister Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King, brother Martin Luther King, III, niece Yolanda Renee King, and a host of immediate and extended family members.
The King family requests privacy during this time and plans to address media inquiries at a press conference scheduled for Tuesday, January 23rd, at 10:00 am ET, inside Freedom Hall’s Yolanda D. King Theatre at The King Center.
Source of Photo: The King Center
