Frank Caprio, The 'Nicest Judge In The World,' Shared A Touching Final Message Before Passing At 88

Frank Caprio, remembered by many as the ‘nicest judge in the world,’ shared one last heartfelt message before he sadly passed away yesterday.

The Rhode Island-born judge died at 88 after battling pancreatic cancer. Over the years, he touched the lives of millions through his compassionate way of handling cases, moments that often went viral and inspired people far beyond his courtroom.

Caprio also became well known as the face of the television show Caught in Providence. The program followed real people stepping into the Providence Municipal Court in Rhode Island, where Caprio presided over cases that ranged from parking tickets and traffic violations to arraignments for minor criminal offenses. His approach to these cases made viewers feel as though justice could be both fair and kind.

It was his empathy on the bench that earned him the reputation of being the ‘nicest judge in the world.’ Alongside this recognition, he was also nominated for two Emmy Awards, praised for his humor and gentle personality that shone through in the courtroom and on television.

In December 2023, the news was confirmed that the father of five was battling pancreatic cancer. Sadly, a statement released on August 20 by his son, Frank T. Caprio, revealed that his father had lost that fight, passing away after months of courageously facing the illness.

In an emotional announcement shared on his Instagram account, the statement read: "Judge Frank Caprio passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer."

Frank Caprio has died at the age of 88 Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images

"Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond."

"His warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him."

"He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. His legacy lives on in the countless acts of kindness he inspired."

"In his honour, may we each strive to bring a little more compassion into the world - just as he did every day."

Caprio leaves behind his wife, Joyce, with whom he shared more than sixty years of marriage. He is also survived by his five children — Frank, David, Marissa, John, and Paul — along with seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Just one day before his passing, Caprio revealed he had been hospitalized again due to his ongoing battle with cancer.

In that final Instagram update, the viral judge once again asked his many supporters for their prayers, writing: "As I continue this difficult battle, your prayers will lift my spirit."

Speaking honestly in the video, he told his followers: "Last year I asked you to pray for me, and it's very obvious that you did, because I came through a very difficult period."

"Unfortunately, I've had a setback, I'm back in the hospital. Now, I'm coming to you again and asking you to remember me in your prayers once more."

Since the announcement of his passing, tributes from fans, friends, and public figures have poured in. Thousands have taken to social media to remember him and honor the kindness he showed throughout his career.

The judge became a viral sensation Jessica Rinaldi/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

Debmar-Mercur, the production company behind Caught in Providence, also released a statement, saying: "Judge Caprio's unique brand of compassion and common sense approach to justice caught the attention of daytime TV and social media audiences, making Caught in Providence a fan favorite."

"We will miss him dearly, and our hearts go out to the Caprio family."