Remembering Dexter Scott King: A Legacy of Civil Rights and Family
A Life Dedicated to Family and Legacy
On January 23, 2024, the world mourned the loss of Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of civil rights icons Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King. Dexter, who passed away at the age of 62 after a valiant battle with prostate cancer, left an indelible mark on the legacy of the King family and the broader struggle for equality and justice.
Born on January 30, 1961, in Atlanta, Georgia, Dexter Scott King grew up under the shadow of his father’s towering legacy. Named after Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father served his first pastorate, Dexter was only seven years old when Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1968.
Growing up in Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, where his grandfather served as pastor, Dexter followed in his father’s footsteps, attending Morehouse College in Atlanta. His humble demeanor and uncanny resemblance to his father led him to portray Dr. King in the 2002 television movie “The Rosa Parks Story.”
Protecting His Father’s Intellectual Property
Dexter dedicated his life to the continued perpetuation of his father’s legacy and the protection of the intellectual property his father left behind. He served as both chairman of The King Center and president of the King Estate, becoming well-versed in intellectual property law, management, and licensing.
A Balancing Act: Love for the Arts and Family Duty
While Dexter had a love for the creative arts, family duty called, and he answered. He relocated to California to pursue an acting career but ultimately returned to Atlanta to fulfill his responsibilities to the King family legacy.
A Private Ceremony and a Life of Love
In July 2013, Dexter married his best friend and longtime partner, Leah Weber, a New Orleans native and former broadcast journalist. Together, they built a life of love, support, and unconditional love, mirroring the relationship between Dexter’s mother and father.
Tributes and Memories
The news of Dexter’s passing sent shockwaves across Atlanta and the world. Tributes, remembrances, and heartfelt messages poured in, honoring his unwavering dedication to civil rights and his love for his family.
Atlanta Council member Michael Julian Bond, who grew up with Dexter, expressed his disbelief and sadness at the loss of a dear friend. He recalled their childhood days, playing together in the streets and riding bikes, cherishing the memories of a warm and genuine person.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, the Atlanta City Council, and the Georgia and Atlanta NAACP released statements expressing their condolences and acknowledging Dexter’s profound impact on the civil rights movement and the struggle for equality. They praised his tireless efforts to promote social justice, community development, and the realization of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s dream of a beloved community.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Dexter Scott King’s passing is not only a loss to his family and friends but also to the broader community that benefited from his passion, vision, and commitment to justice. His life and contributions serve as a beacon of hope for future generations, inspiring them to continue the fight for equality, fairness, and the realization of a more just and equitable society.