Pope Francis dies at 88 after long battle with respiratory illness

Francis, originally from Argentina, was the first Catholic pontiff from the Americas and began his career as a Jesuit priest in Argentina.

By DANIELLE GREYMAN-KENNARDAPRIL 21, 2025 10:56Updated: APRIL 21, 2025 11:29

Pope Francis, who has been pontiff since 2013, passed away on Monday, following long battles with respiratory illnesses, kidney failure, and declining health.

“Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced on the Vatican’s TV channel.

“At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father.”