His death occurred at his home , Casa Santa Marta. The announcement startled both Catholics and non-Catholics, signaling the end of a papacy marked by humility, reform, and compassion.

Pope Francis died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. Vatican News released a memorial photograph of the late Pope with the phrase “Pope Francis, 1936-2025.”

The caption went as follows: “Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta.”

“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with deep regret that I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis.” At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the Father’s house,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell reported on the Vatican’s television channel.

Farrell was set to preside over a ceremony at 8 p.m. on Monday to lay the pope’s remains in a coffin, a formality ahead of a funeral that had yet to be finalized.

“Rest in peace,” one netizen commented. Another said, “RIP, Pope Francis. Christians and the Church have lost a significant and symbolic figure. May God’s blessings and strength be with his family and the church as a whole,” while a third typed, “On Easter Monday of the faith.” “Monday of the Angel.”

Pope Francis was the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church. His death has generated an outpouring of accolades from international leaders, many of whom acknowledge his efforts to modernize a church beset by internal scandals and bureaucratic infighting.

When Pope Francis was elected in 2013, he took over an organization in upheaval, still reeling from global abuse crises and internal disagreements among Vatican authorities. He was entrusted with reestablishing order and credibility.

Throughout his tenure as pope, Francis frequently found himself in conflict with both extremes of the ideological spectrum. Conservatives accused him of abandoning cherished traditions, while progressives felt he did not go far enough in altering the Church’s beliefs and policies.

Despite the response, the Pope remained one of the world’s most recognized and respected religious icons, attracting massive audiences throughout his overseas tours.

His dedication to causes like ecumenical collaboration, world peace, and the misery of migrants shaped his legacy. Though his efforts were not without criticism, Pope Francis revolutionized the tone and goals of the papacy, leaving a church permanently changed by his vision.

Recently, there has been rising anxiety about the late Pope’s health. As previously reported, Pope Francis made a brief but emotional appearance on the Gemelli hospital balcony before being discharged on Sunday, March 23.

Photos and videos of him spread online, eliciting a slew of responses from worried admirers.

Pope Francis was taken to the balcony in a wheelchair, and bandages on both arms could be seen beneath his white cassock. Despite his poor state, the 88-year-old pope addressed the audience, his voice notably feeble.

Among the well-wishers was Carmela Vittoria Mancuso, 79, who had been visiting the hospital on a regular basis during the pope’s treatment. Holding a bouquet of yellow flowers, she was obviously affected when Pope Francis addressed her, later stating that her heart “was bursting” at the time.

After greeting the gathering from the balcony, the pontiff departed Rome’s Gemelli hospital about noon on Sunday. His automobile, followed by police, made a brief halt at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, where he dropped flowers as a show of respect.

Double pneumonia and other issues confined Pope Francis for five weeks. This is the most serious health problem he has encountered throughout his 12-year pontificate.

His first public appearance since February 14 generated a rush of internet comments, with admirers commenting on his new appearance. Some failed to recognize him, with one questioning, “Is that him?” and another adding, “He looks so different.”

Others emphasized, “That is not the same person,” and others agreed, “That is not him.” His well-being was also a cause for concern, as one user noted, “He looks exhausted,” while another netizen sympathized, “Poor man.” He’s quite feeble.” Many people just wished him well, with one asking, “Omg…let him rest!”

Though the pope has returned to the Vatican, his physicians have indicated that his recuperation will take time. They recommended two months of recuperation and advised avoiding big or hectic gatherings. Given his unpredictable schedule, it is unclear how much involvement Pope Francis will continue in the coming months.

During his recent visit, he breathed on his own but needed a little oxygen hose under his nose when driving in his automobile. Furthermore, his health had deteriorated to the point that he required oxygen to breathe while in the hospital.