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Dexter King, the 62-year-old son of the iconic civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, has passed away at his California residence following a battle with prostate cancer. The announcement of his death was made by The King Center in Atlanta, where Dexter King had been serving as chairman.
Named after the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Alabama, where his father once served as pastor, Dexter King's life was deeply intertwined with the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. He was a mere 7 years old when his father was tragically assassinated in 1968, a pivotal moment that would shape the trajectory of his life.
In adulthood, Dexter King took on the responsibility of preserving and championing his father's legacy. His focus extended beyond sentimental homage, as he actively engaged in safeguarding the King family's intellectual property. Dexter King's role in overseeing the King Center, an institution dedicated to advancing his father's teachings and promoting social justice, emphasized his commitment to continuing the civil rights leader's work.
The passing of Dexter Scott King marks the end of an era for the King family and adds a poignant chapter to the ongoing narrative of the struggle for civil rights in the United States. As the custodian of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy, Dexter King's contributions will be remembered not only for the familial connection but also for his dedicated efforts to ensure that the principles and teachings of his father endure.
