Just hours after whispers of Pope Francis’ death sent shockwaves around the world, the Vatican confirmed the news and shared intimate details of his final moments. Where Easter joy had filled St. Peter’s Square only days before, sorrow now settled — pilgrims held rosaries tightly, gazing up at the balcony where he had recently waved to the crowd for the last time.
The Vatican’s official statement revealed that the Pope succumbed to a cerebral stroke, which led to a coma and a subsequent “irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse.” Despite widespread speculation, his death was not caused by pneumonia — an illness he had been battling earlier this year and which had required weeks of hospitalization.
On March 23, just a month before his passing, Pope Francis was seen leaving Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. He had spent nearly six weeks there receiving treatment for pneumonia in both lungs. Through those difficult days, he never set aside his pastoral duties. He held Mass from his hospital room, and even marked the 12th anniversary of his election with a humble celebration among doctors and staff.
As news of his passing spread, mourners from around the world gathered in Rome. Some waved Argentine flags in tribute to his roots; others stood in silence, tears reflecting the deep bond many felt with the 88-year-old pontiff. “He meant everything,” one woman whispered, eyes red with grief.
On Easter Sunday, just one day before his death, the Pope made a surprise appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica following Mass — a moment no one realized would be his last. Frail but smiling, he greeted the cheering crowd with a brief Easter message: “Dear brothers and sisters, Happy Easter.” That afternoon, he boarded the Popemobile and rode through the square, blessing children and waving with quiet strength.
That same morning, he also welcomed U.S. Vice President JD Vance for a brief but warm meeting at Casa Santa Marta. Despite their differing political views, the visit was marked by mutual respect and a shared faith. The Pope gave Easter eggs to Vance’s children and offered a blessing before returning to rest.
On the morning of April 21, Pope Francis reportedly awoke early but soon experienced a sudden decline. By 7 a.m., he had slipped into a coma and passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m. in his private quarters. At 9:45 a.m., Cardinal Kevin Farrell made the official announcement: “His entire life was dedicated to serving the Lord and His Church. He lived the Gospel with courage and love.”
Later that evening, a solemn ceremony was held to certify his death and prepare his body for public viewing. His remains were placed in a coffin inside the chapel of Casa Santa Marta. Vatican officials also sealed his private apartment and personal quarters in accordance with tradition.
Beginning April 23, Pope Francis will lie in state inside St. Peter’s Basilica, where the faithful will be able to pay their respects. Funeral plans are still being finalized, but early reports suggest he will be laid to rest at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore — close to the icon of the Virgin Mary, Salus Populi Romani, a symbol of devotion throughout his papacy.
Just weeks before his passing, a rare video showed him being wheeled through St. Peter’s Basilica, wearing simple clothing and an oxygen cannula. That quiet image — stripped of grandeur — captured the humility that defined his papacy and sparked global reflection.
Tributes have poured in from every corner of the globe. One mourner wrote, “Rest in peace, Holy Father — you’ve earned it.” Another remarked, “He didn’t just change the Church — he changed hearts.”
As the Vatican enters a period of mourning and transition, one truth is already clear: Pope Francis’ legacy will not be measured solely in reforms or policies, but in the way he led — with humility, courage, and an unwavering love for all.
His final hours were a mirror of his life: deeply human, profoundly spiritual, and centered on service. As the world says goodbye, it also remembers a shepherd who walked gently, spoke boldly, and always made space for the forgotten.
