Rhode Island judge Frank Caprio, who captured the hearts of people around the globe with his humanity and kindness in court, passed away at 88. The “kindest judge in America,” Caprio gained popularity due to his courtroom interactions captured on viral videos, where he married justice with compassion.
His family announced his death on Wednesday, August 21, that he had passed away peacefully after a brave fight with pancreatic cancer.
“Judge Frank Caprio died peacefully at age 88 after a long and brave fight with pancreatic cancer. Loved for his kindness, humility, and steadfast faith in the goodness of human nature, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions in the courtroom and beyond,” the Caprio family wrote in a tribute.
A Public Farewell Before His Death
Hours before his death, Caprio posted a video on Instagram from his hospital bed, requesting people to pray for him. In the tearful video, he disclosed that he had taken a turn for the worse in his health but was thankful for the care he had received on his journey.
“Unfortunately I’ve had a setback, I’m back in the hospital now and I’m coming to you again asking you to remember me in your prayers once more,” he said.
The video soon went viral, with fans and well-wishers pouring into the comments with messages of love and encouragement.
His Battle With Pancreatic Cancer
Caprio was originally diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in November of 2023. In a heart-wrenching Facebook video, he told his fans about the diagnosis, stating that he was ready to battle with strength.
In the year that followed, he completed six months of chemotherapy and five radiation treatments. In May 2024, to mark the achievement of his last radiation treatment, he rang the symbolic “bell of healing” at the Miami Cancer Institute, surrounded by physicians, nurses, and loved ones.
In spite of his worsening health, Caprio remained in touch with his fans, regularly posting about his treatments and motivating others with his strength.
A Legacy That Goes Beyond the Courtroom
Frank Caprio was not only a judge. He was a mentor, a family man, and a role model to millions who were impressed by his empathy toward those who stood before him in court. His way of mixing justice with compassion made him a worldwide phenomenon.
The Caprio family highlighted his enduring legacy: “He will be remembered not just as a well-respected judge, but as a committed husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. His legacy lives on in the thousands of acts of kindness he inspired.”
