Dexter Scott King, the youngest son of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, passed away at the age of 62 after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. The King Center, where Dexter served as chairman, confirmed his death, noting that he transitioned peacefully in his sleep at home in Malibu.

Dexter, born on Jan. 30, 1961, was only 7 years old when his father was assassinated in 1968. He dedicated his life to continuing his father’s legacy and served as the family member responsible for legally protecting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s work. Dexter, named after the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, where his father served his first pastorate, followed in his father’s footsteps by attending Morehouse College.

While Dexter initially pursued a career in acting in California, he returned to fulfill his family duties. Known for his humility regarding his uncanny resemblance to his father, he portrayed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the 2002 television movie “The Rosa Parks Story.”

His sudden death was described as devastating by his brother Martin Luther King III. Dexter is survived by his wife, sister, brother, niece Yolanda Renee King, and other extended family members. A memorial service, yet to be announced, will be held at a later time.