Camilla Jessen
The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis.
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In the quiet hours before dawn at the Vatican, Pope Francis offered one last act of love and gratitude.
As he lay dying in his bed at Casa Santa Marta, the 87-year-old pontiff raised his hand in a gentle farewell to the man who had never left his side—his personal nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti.
Just one hour later, the Pope passed away peacefully at 7:35 a.m., according to Vatican News.
The final moment was not loud but deeply human.
He did not suffer,” the Vatican’s statement read. “His was a discreet death, almost sudden…for a Pope who was always very reserved about his health.
Strappetti, who became Pope Francis’ personal healthcare assistant in 2022, had been his constant companion through illness and recovery.
During the Pope’s 38-day hospital stay at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, Strappetti never left his side. He then continued his care at Casa Santa Marta, keeping close watch around the clock.
The Pope’s deep appreciation for Strappetti was clear.
During Easter Sunday, in what would be his final public appearance, Francis surprised 50,000 worshippers by riding through St. Peter’s Square in the Popemobile—his first such outing since leaving the hospital.
Despite concerns over his strength, he looked to Strappetti for reassurance: “Do you think I can manage it?”
He could. And he did—with a warm smile, waving to crowds, blessing children, and letting tears of joy flow from those gathered.
Later, he turned to Strappetti and said: “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.”
Though visibly weak, Pope Francis made the deliberate choice not to lead Easter Mass himself. Instead, he passed the responsibility to Cardinal Angelo Comastri.
His final weeks were not filled with dramatic speeches or global fanfare, but rather with calm reflection, private dinners, and a focus on faith and simplicity.
When his final moment came, it was swift and serene. In the early hours of the morning, signs of illness returned. By 5:30 a.m., there was concern. By 6:30, the Pope had slipped into a coma—but not before giving one last, silent thank-you to the man who had helped him through his hardest days.