- Pope Francis dies at 88 on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, in Vatican City
- His final public appearance was during Easter Sunday Mass, just one day before his passing
- Vatican confirms a papal conclave will begin within 15 days to elect a successor
Pope Francis, the beloved head of the Roman Catholic Church and first Latin American pontiff, has died at the age of 88.
The Vatican confirmed his peaceful passing on the morning of Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Vatican City.
His death comes just a day after a spirited Easter Sunday appearance on April 20, where he waved to thousands in Saint Peter’s Square and held a brief meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance.
Known for his progressive values, humility, and fierce defence of the vulnerable, Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, was the first Latin American pope, the first Jesuit pope, and the first to take the name Francis, in honour of St. Francis of Assisi.
Despite recent health challenges, including a long hospital stay due to double pneumonia, Pope Francis had defied doctors' orders to participate in Easter celebrations, an act that now resonates as his final service to the faithful.
Elected in 2013 following Pope Benedict XVI's resignation, Jorge Mario Bergoglio made history as the first pope from the Americas, the Jesuit order, and the Southern Hemisphere.
Pope Francis’ humility, advocacy for the marginalised, and desire to reform the Church touched hearts far beyond the Catholic community.
He promoted climate action, called for peace in conflict-ridden areas like Ukraine and Gaza, and reshaped conversations around issues such as the death penalty, nuclear weapons, LGBTQ inclusion, and immigration.
What happens next after Pope's death?
According to tradition, the Pope’s body will be kept in his apartment, his papal ring will be destroyed, and preparations for a conclave will begin.
Within 15 days, cardinals under 80 will gather in the Vatican to elect a new leader for the Church’s 1.4 billion followers.
Global outpouring of grief for Pope Francis
World leaders, including France’s Emmanuel Macron and Ireland’s Michael Martin, praised Francis for standing up for the most vulnerable.
“He was a voice for peace, justice, and the dignity of all humans,” Martin said.
As the bells toll in the Vatican and churches worldwide hold memorial Masses, one thing is certain: Pope Francis leaves behind a legacy of compassion, courage, and connection.
Samsung co-CEO Han Jong-Hee dies at 63
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that Samsung Electronics is mourning the loss of its co-CEO, Han Jong-Hee, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 63.
According to a company spokesperson, Han suffered cardiac arrest.
In a heartfelt internal message, Samsung honoured Han’s legacy, recognising his leadership during challenging market conditions.