Pope Francis Dies at 88 After Stroke

Pope Francis died swiftly and peacefully from a sudden stroke at age 88, with his chief doctor, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, confirming there was no prolonged suffering and that resuscitation or transport to a hospital would have been futile. On Easter Sunday, just a day before his death, Francis greeted crowds in St. Peter’s Square from his popemobile and met with world leaders, despite recently recovering from double pneumonia and being advised to rest. His final hours were marked by gratitude toward his nurse for encouraging his public appearance and a calm farewell gesture to his caregivers before slipping into a coma. Vatican sources and witnesses emphasized that the pontiff had expressed a wish to die at home and did not suffer in his last moments. Francis was devoted to his pastoral mission to the end, balancing medical advice with a sense of duty to his flock. His funeral is scheduled for Saturday and is expected to attract world leaders and dignitaries.