Pope Francis, The People's Pope, Dies At 88: Tributes Pour In From Trump, King Charles, Tim Cook, Joe Biden, Jimmy Fallon, And More

Pope Francis, revered for his humility, progressive views, and advocacy for the poor, passed away on Monday at the age of 88, prompting an outpouring of tributes from global leaders, tech CEOs, and entertainment figures.

What Happened: The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis died following a stroke that led to a coma and eventual heart failure.

As news of his death spread, bells tolled across Catholic churches worldwide, marking the loss of the first Latin American pontiff in history. Vice President JD Vance met the Pope on Sunday.

Tributes flowed from around the globe, with notable figures expressing their condolences.

President Donald Trump on Truth Social wrote, “Melania and I will be going to the funeral of Pope Francis, in Rome. We look forward to being there!”

In January, Pope Francis criticized Trump's plans to significantly ramp up immigration enforcement across the U.S. in the days following his inauguration.

King Charles, former U.S. Presidents Joe Biden and Barack Obama, and former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau all expressed sorrow.

The King's message following the death of Pope Francis. pic.twitter.com/tnwvSoXcMh
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) April 21, 2025

In the tech world, Apple Inc. AAPL CEO Tim Cook called Pope Francis' life one of “extraordinary grace and deep compassion.”

Joining people around the world in mourning Pope Francis today. He lived a life of extraordinary grace and deep compassion. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/JDSOGe9z3j
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) April 21, 2025

Alphabet Inc. GOOG GOOGL CEO Sundar Pichai and Microsoft Corporation MSFT President Brad Smith praised his humility and commitment to social justice.

We join the world in mourning Pope Francis. He led the Catholic Church with humility and strength, and his message of unification across faiths and backgrounds will endure. May he rest in peace.
— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) April 21, 2025

Pope Francis' unwavering compassion, humility, and commitment to social justice have inspired millions around the world. He will be deeply missed.
— Brad Smith (@BradSmi) April 21, 2025

Comedian Jimmy Fallon also shared his condolences, reflecting on their meeting last year.

It was an honor meeting Pope Francis last summer. I'm glad I made you laugh. Thank you for your encouraging words. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/u5QqeUNLDM
— Jimmy Fallon (@jimmyfallon) April 21, 2025

Why It’s Important: Cardinals were scheduled to meet on Tuesday to organize Pope Francis’ funeral, which is expected to draw leaders from around the globe, ahead of next month’s conclave to choose a new leader for the Roman Catholic Church, reported Reuters.

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