As the world continues to mourn the loss of Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of the legendary civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, his family and loved ones gathered to pay beautiful homage to him.

As we previously reported, on Monday, January 22, 2024 Dexter tragically succumbed to prostate cancer at the age of 62. In an emotional press conference held at the King Nonviolent Center for Social Change in Atlanta on Tuesday, Reverend Dr. Bernice King, Dexter’s sister, shared the heartbreaking details of his battle with the disease and his unwavering dedication to their father’s legacy.

 

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With tearful eyes, Reverend Bernice King struggled to find words to honor her beloved brother. She described how Dexter fought his cancer for three and a half years, displaying immense strength until the very end. “He kept the faith. His might was strong until the end,” she said, her voice filled with pride and sorrow.

Dexter’s passing marks yet another tragic loss for the King family, coming less than a year after the passing of their oldest sister, Christine King Farris, at the age of 95. Dexter’s mother, Coretta Scott King, a prominent civil rights activist in her own right, also passed away in 2006.

As Chairman of The King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, Dexter dedicated his life to protecting and advancing his parents’ profound influence on the world. Bernice King described her brother as an innovative leader, fiercely dedicated and at the forefront of their family’s mission.

The press conference revealed that Dexter was cremated on the same day as his passing, in accordance with his wishes. A memorial service to honor his life is being planned and will be announced at a later date. Bernice King cherished the time she spent with her brother before his death, remembering his words of encouragement, “I’m proud of you. Keep this legacy going. You got this.”

 

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Dexter’s wife, Leah Weber King (pictured below), expressed immense admiration for her late husband, stating, “He gave it everything and battled this terrible disease until the end. As with all the challenges in his life, he faced this hurdle with bravery and might.”

A towering figure with a strong resemblance to his iconic father, Dexter had captured the nation’s attention in the past. In 1997, he met James Earl Ray, the man who had pleaded guilty to assassinating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dexter believed in Ray’s innocence and hoped that a trial would expose a broader conspiracy. Unfortunately, Ray passed away before the trial could take place.

Beyond his role in upholding his father’s legacy, Dexter had a deep love for the creative arts. He even portrayed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the 2002 television movie “The Rosa Parks Story.” Balancing his artistic pursuits and his commitment to the King family legacy, Dexter lived his life with immense dedication.

The loss of Dexter Scott King leaves a void in the hearts of many around the world. His fight against cancer and his unwavering dedication to his father’s legacy will forever be remembered. As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate his incredible spirit and the impact he made to carry forward the torch of justice and equality that his father ignited. Rest on, king.

The post MLK’s Daughter Pays Heart-Wrenching Homage To Brother, Dexter Scott King, After Cremation appeared first on I Love Old School Music.

ILOSM family, we are incredibly saddened to share the news that Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, has passed away at the age of 62, after a long-standing illness. The King Center announced his passing, revealing that Dexter had been privately and courageously battling prostate cancer, prior to succumbing to it.

Dexter’s wife, Leah Weber King (pictured with Dexter in the above photo), was by his side during his final moments, and she shared that he peacefully transitioned in his sleep at their home in Malibu. This heartbreaking news comes as a heavy blow to the King family and loved ones, as Dexter is now the second child of MLK and Coretta to pass away since their father’s assassination in 1968. Yolanda King, Dexter’s sister, was the first of their children to depart this earth in 2007, succumbing to complications from ovarian cancer.

Dexter Scott King was a fierce advocate for civil rights, carrying on his father’s legacy into the 21st century. He dedicated his life to fighting for equality and justice, just as his parents had done. Dexter’s commitment to the cause was evident when he confronted James Earl Ray, the man convicted of assassinating Dr. King, asking him straight up if he was responsible. Despite receiving a denial from Ray, Dexter held his belief and even raised conspiracy theories about the involvement of the federal government in his father’s murder.

In addition to his activism, Dexter also showcased his talent as an actor, portraying his father in the 2002 TV movie, ‘The Rosa Parks Story.’ His resemblance to Dr. King was remarkable, and it sparked countless conversations about the powerful impact of his father’s legacy. Dexter also helped contribute to his pop’s legacy by appearing in the King Holiday video in 1986, alongside many R&B and rap greats at that time…

With the passing of Dexter Scott King, we remember and honor the contributions and sacrifices made by the King family in the pursuit of equality and justice. Martin Luther King III and Bernice King, the remaining living children, continue to carry the torch of their parents’ remarkable work.

In this time of grief, we extend our deepest condolences to the King family and all those whose lives Dexter touched. His memory will forever live on, and his remarkable legacy will continue to inspire future generations to keep fighting for a better and more just world.

Rest in peace, Dexter Scott King. Your spirit will forever be a beacon of hope and inspiration. We are grateful for the significant impact you made during your time with us.

The post R.I.P. – Youngest Son Of MLK & Coretta, Dexter Scott King, Sadly Passes Away, Details appeared first on I Love Old School Music.

After a recent interview with ABC, actor Jonathan Majors, found himself in the crosshairs of Martin Luther King Jr.’s daughter, Bernice King, after invoking the name of Coretta Scott King, MLK’s widow. With allegations of assault and harassment looming, Jonathan defends his use of Coretta’s name, expressing his utmost respect for the iconic figure and her enduring legacy.

Jonathan’s Comments That Sparked Initial Backlash

Addressing the backlash, Jonathan emphasizes his intention to convey respect for Coretta Scott King, acknowledging her monumental achievements and the profound connection she shared with her husband. He explains that his admiration extends to both Coretta’s personal legacy and her crucial role in American and world history.

Jonathan further highlights the powerful influence Coretta Scott King has had on him and his girlfriend, actress Meagan Good. In fact, he compares Meagan’s unwavering support to that of Coretta, stating, “She’s an angel. … She’s held me down like a Coretta. I’m so blessed to have her.” Jonathan’s reference to Coretta seemingly as an angelic figure demonstrated his respect for her. However, it also sparked backlash from many online who pointed out the irony that Jonathan was telling his White girlfriend (at that time) to emulate an African-American civil rights icon; and the first African-American First Lady of the U.S.

Majors Addresses Bernice King’s Concerns?

Following the interview, Bernice King took to X (formerly Twitter) to swiftly express her discontent, pointing out that her iconic mother should not be treated as a prop:

“My mother wasn’t a prop.” – Bernice A. King

While Jonathan does not mention the interaction directly in his latest statement, he assured that his intentions regarding his comments about Coretta Scott-King were pure and rooted in respect:

Via TMZ – “My intention was to convey my utmost respect for Coretta Scott King, her achievements, and both her personal legacy and the one she shares with her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King. … Coretta “is a great woman, a very important figure in American and world history, and someone both Meagan and I are inspired by and deeply admire.” – Jonathan Majors

The Trial and Jonathan’s Previous Coretta Comparison

During the trial, audio clips revealed that Jonathan had encouraged his ex-girlfriend, Grace Jabbari, to emulate both Coretta Scott King and Michelle Obama. It is clear that Jonathan holds these influential women in high regard. But the jury found him guilty of assault and harassment against Jabbari, despite viewing surveillance footage of Jonathan running away from Grace during their alleged altercation.

Only Time Will Tell

In spite of the criticism and potential implications, as y’all can see…Jonathan remains unapologetic for utilizing Coretta’s name. He firmly asserts that his immense respect for her remains intact. Only time will reveal how – or if – Coretta’s fam’ will respond to after Jonathan’s latest statement.

The post Jonathan Majors Responds After Martin Luther King’s Daughter Seemingly Shades Him appeared first on I Love Old School Music.

After the King’s were married by MLK Jr.’s father, Martin Luther King Sr., on the front lawn of Coretta’s parents’ home in Marion, AL, they were cheered on and given well wishes by their family, as they drove off into what appeared to be a picture perfect wedding day.

Lo and behold, the the newlyweds were rejected by a whites-only hotel, but they refused to allow a little rejection kill their newlywed joy. So, they did the next best thing of course — drove to a Black-owned funeral home owned by their friend (who was also the undertaker) and spent their wedding night there instead. Here’s what was written in Martin Luther King Jr.: Warrior For Peace:

“I suppose it does sound funny,” Coretta would recall, “but one has to realize there were no hotels with bridal suites for African Americans in that part of the country.”

The funeral home was actually a large house, with several rooms that were not in use. Therefore, the King’s stay there probably wasn’t as funeral-ish as it seems on the outside.

Just another Old School fun fact on this wonderful MLK Day about two of the greatest civil rights icons to have ever been born. Rest on Mrs. Coretta and Dr. King.

The post Here’s Why Dr. King And Coretta Were Forced To Celebrate Wedding Night In A Funeral Home appeared first on I Love Old School Music.

After the King’s were married by MLK Jr.’s father, MLK Sr.’ on the front lawn of Coretta’s parents’ home in Marion, AL, they were cheered on and given well wished by their family, as they drove off into what appeared to be a picture perfect wedding day.

Lo and behold, the the newlyweds were rejected by a whites-only hotel, but they refused to allow little rejection kill their newlywed joy. So they did the next best thing of course- drove to a Black owned funeral home owned by their friend (who was also the undertaker) and spent their wedding night there instead. Here’s what was written in Martin Luther King Jr.: Warrior For Peace:

“I suppose it does sound funny,” Coretta would recall, “but one has to realize there were no hotels with bridal suites for African Americans in that part of the country.”

The funeral home was actually a large house, with several rooms that were not in use, so the Kings’ stay there probably wasn’t as funeral-ish as it seems on the outside.

Just another Old School fun fact on this wonderful MLK Day about two of the greatest civil rights icons to have ever been born. Rest on Mrs. Coretta and Dr. King.

The post Oh My! See Why Coretta& Dr.King Celebrated Their WEDDING NIGHT In FUNERAL HOME appeared first on I Love Old School Music.