Table of Contents
Introduction
Dexter Scott King, the son of civil rights icons Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, led a remarkable life that left an indelible mark on the civil rights movement. In this article, we will explore whether Dexter King had children and delve into his notable contributions to civil rights activism, his career, and his family life.
Did Dexter King Have Children?
No, Dexter Scott King did not have any children during his 11-year marriage to Leah Weber King. Despite their enduring love, the couple did not have offspring together, focusing on their respective careers.
Who is Dexter King?
Dexter Scott King was born at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Georgia, on January 30, 1961. Named after the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father once served, he was cared for by his elder sister Yolanda. At just seven, he witnessed the tragic assassination of his father, a pivotal moment that would shape his life.
Full Name | Dexter Scott King |
Birth Date | January 30, 1961 |
Birth Place | Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. |
Death Date | January 22, 2024 |
Death Place | Malibu, California, U.S. |
Education | Attended Morehouse College |
Occupation | Civil Rights Activist, Attorney, Author |
Spouse | Leah Weber (married in 2013) |
Parents | Martin Luther King Jr. (father) Coretta Scott King (mother) |
Career
Dexter Scott King had a diverse career marked by his dedication to civil rights, nonviolence, and animal rights. Splitting his time between Atlanta, Georgia, and Malibu, California, he served as the chairman of the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change. In 1989, his mother appointed him president of the King Center, but a dispute led to his resignation after just four months.
He resumed the position in 1994, reducing staff and refocusing on preserving his father’s legacy. Dexter was not only a committed vegan and animal rights activist but also voiced his father’s character in the 1999 film “Our Friend, Martin” and portrayed him in the 2002 TV movie “The Rosa Parks Story.” In 2013, he attended the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, commemorating his father’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
Dexter was involved in the Loyd Jowers trial, expressing skepticism about James Earl Ray’s role in his father’s assassination and suggesting a broader conspiracy involving the Memphis Police Department and even President Lyndon B. Johnson.
Age
Dexter Scott King passed away on January 22, 2024, at the age of 62. Throughout his life, Dexter played a significant role in civil rights activism, serving as chairman of the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change and later as its president.
His dedication to preserving his father’s legacy, commitment to nonviolence, and advocacy for animal rights defined his multifaceted career. Despite the challenges he faced, Dexter Scott King left a lasting impact on social change, contributing to the ongoing legacy of the King family in American history.
Wife
Dexter Scott King, the son of Martin Luther King Jr., tied the knot with Leah Weber in a private ceremony in California on July 12, 2013. Leah, born on August 7, 1980, is an American with a mixed African American heritage. The couple, who first met in New Orleans during a book signing for Dexter’s memoir, built a life of love and support, reminiscent of Dexter’s parents.
Leah Weber King, a former broadcast journalist, entrepreneur, and consultant, hails from New Orleans. Despite their long and close relationship, the couple does not have any children together. Dexter’s cousin, Isaac Newton Farris Jr., shared that their connection mirrors the unconditional love Dexter’s parents shared. The King Center highlighted their commitment, emphasizing the enduring love and support that defines their relationship.
Did Dexter King Have Children – FAQs
1. Did Dexter King have children?
No, Dexter Scott King did not have any children during his 11-year marriage to Leah Weber King.
2. Who is Dexter King?
Dexter Scott King was an American civil rights activist, attorney, and author, known for his role as the Chairman of The Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change. He passed away on January 22, 2024, at the age of 62.
3. What was Dexter King’s career?
Dexter Scott King had a diverse career, serving as an activist, attorney, and author. He played a crucial role in preserving his father’s legacy and was involved in civil rights, nonviolence, and animal rights activism.
4. When did Dexter King pass away?
Dexter Scott King passed away on January 22, 2024, at the age of 62, in Malibu, California.
5. Who was Dexter King’s wife?
Dexter King married Leah Weber in a private ceremony in California on July 12, 2013. Leah, born on August 7, 1980, is a former broadcast journalist and entrepreneur.