Dexter Scott King: A Legacy of Civil Rights Advocacy and Family Stewardship

A Family’s Heartrending Farewell

With profound grief, the King family announced the passing of Dexter Scott King, the beloved youngest son of civil rights icons Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King. On January 22, 2024, Dexter succumbed to a courageous battle with prostate cancer at his Malibu home, surrounded by his devoted loved ones.

A United Front in Mourning

The King family expressed their immense sorrow, seeking solace and strength during this challenging time. Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center and Dexter’s sister, shared her heartbreak and sought divine guidance. Martin Luther King, III, Dexter’s brother, conveyed the family’s shock and devastation, emphasizing the need for prayers and support.

A Son Entrusted with His Father’s Legacy

Born on January 30, 1961, in Atlanta, Georgia, Dexter Scott King carried the namesake of Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father served his first pastorate. Growing up in Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, under the guidance of his grandfather, Dexter witnessed firsthand the legacy his father was building.

At the tender age of seven, Dexter experienced the tragic loss of his father, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., who was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1968. Despite this immense loss, Dexter remained steadfast in his commitment to perpetuating his father’s legacy and safeguarding the intellectual property (IP) that Dr. King left behind.

Dexter’s dedication led him to become the chairman of The King Center and the president of the King Estate. His expertise in intellectual property law enabled him to effectively manage and license his father’s work, ensuring its preservation and accessibility for generations to come.

A Brief Foray into Acting and a Life Balanced Between Art and Legacy

Dexter’s passion for the creative arts initially drew him to California, where he pursued an acting career. However, his sense of duty to his family’s legacy eventually brought him back to Atlanta, where he found a harmonious balance between his love for the arts and his responsibilities to the King family’s heritage.

In 2002, Dexter portrayed his father in the television movie “The Rosa Parks Story,” showcasing his uncanny resemblance to Dr. King. This role exemplified his deep connection to his father’s work and his commitment to honoring his legacy.

A Loving Husband and Devoted Family Man

In July 2013, Dexter found love and companionship in Leah Weber, a New Orleans native and former broadcast journalist. Their marriage was built on love, support, and unconditional care, mirroring the bond shared by Dexter’s parents.

Leah Weber King, Dexter’s devoted wife of 11 years, expressed her admiration for his bravery in battling cancer, highlighting his unwavering spirit and resilience. She recounted how Dexter faced this challenge with courage and determination, echoing the strength he displayed throughout his life.

Tributes and Remembrances Honor a Life Well-Lived

The news of Dexter’s passing elicited an outpouring of tributes and remembrances from various individuals and organizations across Atlanta and beyond.

Atlanta Council member Michael Julian Bond, a childhood friend of Dexter, expressed his shock and sadness at the news. He recalled their playful days in the neighborhood, engaging in typical childhood activities such as riding bikes, playing football, and skateboarding.

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and the Atlanta City Council extended their condolences to the King family, acknowledging Dexter’s profound love for his family and his contributions to the civil rights movement. They recognized his dedication to equality and justice, leaving an indelible mark on Atlanta and the broader struggle for a more just and equitable society.

The Georgia NAACP and the Atlanta NAACP released a joint statement expressing their deep sadness and extending condolences to the King family and Dexter’s colleagues. They highlighted Dexter’s unwavering commitment to advancing civil rights, equality, and justice, carrying forward the legacy of his parents.

Rep. Carl Gillard, chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, conveyed the condolences of the caucus, emphasizing Dexter’s work as chairman of The King Center and president of the King Estate. He requested prayers for the entire King family, especially Dexter’s wife, Leah Weber.

A Memorial Service to Celebrate a Life of Impact

The King family requested privacy during this time of mourning and announced a press conference scheduled for Tuesday, January 23, at 10 a.m., at The King Center’s Yolanda D. King Theatre inside Freedom Hall.

A memorial service to honor Dexter Scott King’s life and contributions will be announced at a later date. The King family’s request for privacy is a testament to the deep sense of loss they are experiencing and the need for time to grieve and heal.

A Legacy that Lives On

Dexter Scott King’s passing marks the loss of a dedicated civil rights advocate, a steward of his father’s legacy, and a loving family man. His unwavering commitment to preserving his father’s work, his passion for the arts, and his devotion to his family will continue to inspire generations to come.

As the King family navigates this difficult chapter, the outpouring of support and condolences from friends, colleagues, and the community at large serves as a reminder of the profound impact Dexter Scott King had on the world. His legacy will live on through the continued work of The King Center and the unwavering commitment of his family to the ideals of justice, equality, and peace.