PROVIDENCE, R.I. — The internet is sad over the death of Judge Frank Caprio, who died peacefully at the age of 88 after a long fight with pancreatic cancer. Caprio became famous across the world through viral videos of his courtroom sessions, where he showed a rare mix of kindness, comedy, and fairness. People called him “America’s Nicest Judge.”
The news came from a tribute post on his official Facebook page, which said that Caprio was “loved for his kindness, humility, and unwavering faith in the goodness of people.” The message went on to say that his “warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him,” and that he would be remembered as a “devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend.”
Since the news of his death, social media has been flooded with emotional messages of sympathy and remembrance. Someone wrote, “Goodbye, kind judge.” “May your soul Rest In Peace and tranquillity,” said one person, while another said, “I’m so sorry to hear that Judge Frank Caprio died at 88.” A guy who showed the world that love and compassion can be part of the law. May his memory live on.
A lot of people posted their favorite viral videos of the judge, showing times when he would throw out cases for people who were having trouble making ends meet or give advice and encouragement to persons who came before him. His TV court show, Caught in Providence, offered his unusual approach to justice to a worldwide audience. Millions of people loved how he could see the good in everyone.
A video was posted on Caprio’s official Instagram account just hours before he died. In it, he thanked his fans for their support from his hospital bed. The caption said, “As I continue this difficult battle, your prayers will lift my spirit.” This showed how strong his faith was and how close he was to his fans.
The last thing he wrote on Facebook was a moving note that advised others to commemorate his memory by trying to “bring a little more compassion into the world — just like he did every day.”