Remembering Dexter Scott King: A Legacy of Civil Rights and Family
On January 22, 2024, the world lost a beacon of civil rights advocacy and a dedicated guardian of his family’s legacy: Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Coretta Scott King. At the age of 62, Dexter succumbed to a valiant battle with prostate cancer, leaving behind a profound void in the hearts of his loved ones, the civil rights community, and countless individuals inspired by his father’s iconic leadership.
A Life Shaped by Civil Rights and Family
Born on January 30, 1961, in Atlanta, Georgia, Dexter was named after Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father served his first pastorate. As the second-born son of Dr. and Mrs. King, Dexter’s childhood was indelibly marked by the assassination of his father in 1968, when he was just seven years old. Growing up in Atlanta, Dexter followed in his father’s footsteps, attending Ebenezer Baptist Church, where his grandfather served as pastor, and graduating from Frederick Douglas High School. He then pursued his higher education at Morehouse College in Atlanta, the alma mater of his father.
Preserving His Father’s Legacy
Dexter’s life took a significant turn when he was entrusted with the responsibility of continuing his father’s precedent of legally protecting his work. He devoted himself to perpetuating his father’s legacy and safeguarding the intellectual property left behind by Dr. King. Dexter served as both Chairman of The King Center and President of the King Estate, dedicating himself to becoming well-versed in intellectual property law, management, and licensing. His unwavering commitment to this task honored the memory of both his father and mother.
A Passion for the Arts and Family
While Dexter possessed an uncanny resemblance to his father, he remained humble about it. In 2002, he portrayed Dr. King in the television movie “The Rosa Parks Story.” Dexter’s love for the creative arts initially led him to California to pursue an acting career. However, his family duty called, and he returned to Atlanta, balancing his passion for the arts with his responsibilities to the King family legacy.
In July 2013, Dexter found love and companionship in Leah Weber, a New Orleans native and former broadcast journalist. They married in a private ceremony, building a life of love, support, and unconditional love, mirroring the bond shared by Dexter’s parents.
A Profound Loss
Dexter’s passing is a profound loss for his family, the civil rights community, and the world. He is survived by his devoted wife of 11 years, Leah Weber King, his sister Rev. Dr. Bernice A. King, his brother Martin Luther King, III, and his niece, Yolanda Renee King.
Tributes and Memories: Honoring Dexter Scott King’s Legacy
In the wake of Dexter King’s passing, tributes, remembrances, and heartfelt messages have poured in from across the world, honoring his life and contributions.
Atlanta Council member Michael Julian Bond, who grew up with Dexter and played with him as kids in the same neighborhood, expressed shock and disbelief at the news of his passing. He recalled Dexter’s warm personality and the joy they shared playing together in the streets.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens expressed his grief, stating that Dexter’s love for his family positioned him as a guardian of his father and mother’s legacies. He extended his heartfelt sympathies to Dexter’s wife, siblings, and the entire King family.
The Atlanta City Council also released a statement, acknowledging Dexter’s lasting impact on the legacy of the King family and the broader struggle for equality and justice. They extended their condolences to the family and all those who cherished Dexter’s contributions to civil rights and his role as a beloved member of Atlanta’s community.
The Georgia NAACP and the Atlanta NAACP expressed their deep sadness and extended heartfelt condolences to Dexter’s family, friends, and colleagues. They recognized his unwavering commitment to advancing civil rights, equality, and justice, carrying forward the principles of nonviolent activism and the pursuit of equality for all. They honored his tireless efforts in promoting social justice, civil rights, and community development, leaving an indelible mark on the nation.
Rep. Carl Gillard, chair of the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, offered condolences on behalf of the caucus, acknowledging Dexter’s dedication as chairman of The King Center and president of the King Estate. He requested prayers for the entire King family, particularly Dexter’s wife, Leah Weber.
As the King family grieves the loss of Dexter Scott King, the world remembers his unwavering commitment to his family’s legacy, his dedication to civil rights advocacy, and his passion for justice and equality. His life and contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.