February 01 , 2006
Coretta Scott King, the widow of civil rights activist Martin Luther King, has died at the age of 78. After her husband’s violent death in 1968, she worked to carry on his legacy. Having suffered a stroke in August, 2005, King made a surprising appearance at a children's program in mid January during events surrounding the annual commemoration of Martin Luther King's birthday. His widow's steely determination, grace and class won her millions of admirers inside and outside the civil rights movement. She leaves four children, Yolanda, Martin III, Dexter and Bernice. Flags in Atlanta began flying at half-mast shortly after the news of her death was circulated. "We appreciate the prayers and condolences from people across the country," her children noted Tuesday morning in a statement.
