March 12th 2024.
Naomi Barber King has passed away at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of grace and unwavering support for the civil rights movement. She was the beloved wife of Rev. Alfred Daniel Williams King and the sister-in-law of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Her passing was confirmed by the A.D. King Foundation, an organization she established in 2008 with a mission to empower youth and women and promote nonviolent social change strategies.
According to ABC News, the statement released by the foundation described Naomi as a woman of quiet dignity, overcoming strength, and unwavering support for her husband, family, and community in Atlanta and beyond. She was born in 1931 in Dothan, Alabama and was raised by her mother, Bessie Barber, until they moved to Atlanta in search of a better life. In her younger years, Naomi was known for her charm, grace, and beauty and was often chosen by local clothing stores to model their inventory. This recognition even earned her the honor of being featured in shop windows and circulars alongside her "white" counterparts.
After attending Spelman College for a year, Naomi married A.D. Williams King, a Baptist minister and civil rights activist. She became an integral part of the movement, standing alongside her husband and brother-in-law as they fought for equality and justice. She was a steadfast supporter throughout major milestones of the movement, including the Montgomery bus boycott, the creation of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, the Greensboro sit-ins, the Birmingham campaign, the March on Washington, and the Selma voting rights campaign.
Naomi's contributions to the civil rights movement were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including the prestigious SCLC Rosa Parks Freedom Award. She was also a published author, known for her book "A.D. and ML King: Two Brothers Who Dared to Dream," which shared the love story of her life. Sadly, Naomi experienced the loss of her husband in 1969, followed by the passing of her daughter Darlene and son Al in later years. Their son, Vernon King, also preceded her in death.
She is survived by her daughter Alveda King, son Derek King, and her grandchildren. Naomi's legacy as the "Butterfly Queen" will forever be etched in the annals of the civil rights movement. Her passing is a loss not only for her family but also for the entire community. As we mourn her passing, we honor her life and the impact she made in the fight for equality and justice. Her spirit will live on through her loved ones and all those who continue to carry on her legacy. Rest in peace, Naomi Barber King.
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