Pope Francis’ death shook millions around the world. As tributes continue to pour in, we now have a glimpse into how his final hours played out, thanks to the words of the man who stood by his side in his last moments: his doctor.
The Vatican confirmed Pope Francis passed away on April 21, 2025—Easter Monday—at the age of 88. His death was attributed to a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and an irreversible cardiac collapse. Despite his fragile health, the pontiff had remained active during Holy Week, even attending Easter Sunday celebrations just a day before he passed.
Pope Francis’ Final Minutes: The Quiet Goodbye at the Vatican
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who had long overseen the pope’s care, was urgently called to the Vatican that morning. What he found was heartbreaking.
“I went into his room, and he had his eyes open,” he said. “I noted that he did not have respiratory issues, so I tried to call him, but he did not respond.” Despite clear lungs and supplemental oxygen, Pope Francis did not react to any stimuli. “In that moment I understood there was nothing more to do. He was in a coma,” Alfieri shared.
The doctor respected Francis’ wish to die at home. Two hours later, the pope passed away peacefully. Cardinal Pietro Parolin arrived shortly after and led the rosary, surrounded by the papal household. “I gave him a caress, as a farewell,” Alfieri added.
A Lifetime of Health Challenges That Never Held Him Back
Francis’ health was a constant concern during his papacy. At 21, he lost part of a lung due to infection, a condition that would haunt him for decades. In the months leading up to his death, he suffered from bilateral pneumonia, bronchiectasis, hypertension, and diabetes.
He also underwent surgery in 2021 for a bowel condition, battled recurring bronchitis, experienced early-stage kidney failure, and often required a wheelchair due to sciatica and knee pain. Still, he remained present and active, refusing to retreat from his papal duties.
Despite his fragile condition, Pope Francis continued with physical therapy and even had moments of sweetness—literally. “He had a big sweet tooth,” Alfieri said, recalling how the pope would sneak down to the Santa Marta kitchen for a midnight snack.
On Holy Saturday, just two days before his death, Alfieri saw him and found him in good spirits. “I didn’t think it would be the last meeting,” he admitted.
One of the pope’s last regrets was not being able to perform the foot-washing ritual for prisoners on Holy Thursday—one of his favorite traditions.
Even in his final hours, Pope Francis remained faithful to his calling. He chose not to be moved to a hospital. He wanted to die in the Vatican, as pope, just as he had lived for the Church and its people.
His doctor summed it up best: “We knew he wanted to return home to be pope until the last instant, and he didn’t disappoint us.”
