Martin Luther King Jr.’s youngest son Dexter dies aged 62

Martin Luther King Jr.’s youngest son Dexter passed away on Monday aged 62.

Dexter Scott King died Monday at his California home after a ‘valiant battle with prostate cancer’, the King Center confirmed in a statement.

Dexter Scott King’s wife Leah Weber said in a statement from the King Center, “He transitioned peacefully in his sleep at home with me in Malibu.”

She added, “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.”

Dexter’s older brother Martin Luther King III said in a statement, “I am deeply saddened to share that my brother, Dexter Scott King, has passed away. The sudden shock is devastating. It is hard to have the right words at a moment like this. Please keep the entire King family in your prayers, and in particular Dexter’s wife, Leah Weber.”

In addition to continuing his father’s civil rights work, Dexter was a vocal vegan and advocate for animal rights throughout his life.

Dexter was just seven years old when Martin Luther King was assassinated on April 4, 1968.

He even acted as his father in a 2002 film, “The Rosa Parks Story.”