Pope Francis Dies at 88 After Defying Doctors' Orders

Pope Francis died at age 88 after continuing his active schedule despite doctors’ orders to rest following a severe bout of double pneumonia that had hospitalized him for over five weeks. On Easter Sunday, the day before his death, he made a final public appearance in St. Peter’s Square and met with leaders including U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic. Medical experts suggest that his decision to forego convalescence and maintain strenuous duties likely placed additional strain on his health and may have contributed to his sudden death, reportedly caused by a stroke or cerebral hemorrhage rather than pneumonia. The Vatican has not officially confirmed the exact cause of death, but Francis’s devotion to his pastoral mission was evident to the end, as noted by close aides and biographers. Mourners gathered in Vatican City to pay their respects, and global leaders offered condolences, remembering Francis for his commitment to presence and service. His passing marks the end of a papacy defined by humility, accessibility, and a steadfast focus on being with his flock.