Judge Frank Caprio, Beloved as “The Nicest Judge in the World,” Passes Away at 88 After Battling Pancreatic Cancer

Before his passing, the renowned Rhode Island judge made one last appearance — not from the courtroom bench where he built his legacy, but through social media.

Judge Frank Caprio, best known for his compassionate rulings on the television show Caught in Providence, has died at the age of 88. His family announced his death on his official Instagram page on August 20, 2025, and colleagues across Rhode Island paid tribute to his remarkable career and humanity.

A Judge Loved Around the World

Known affectionately as “The Nicest Judge in the World,” Frank Caprio touched millions with his kindness, humor, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people. His televised court sessions—often filled with compassion and lighthearted exchanges—earned him global admiration and made his courtroom a symbol of humanity in justice.

His family reflected on those same values in their public statement:

“He will be remembered not only as a respected judge, but as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend.”

Rhode Island leaders echoed this sentiment. In a joint statement, Senate President Valarie Lawson, Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone III, and Senate Majority Whip David Tikoian shared:

“Judge Caprio embodied the spirit of Rhode Island and its people. He truly saw the humanity in everyone, and his compassion inspired countless acts of kindness across the world.”

 

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His Battle With Pancreatic Cancer

In December 2023, Judge Caprio revealed that he had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. In an emotional Instagram video, he shared that his birthday had been overshadowed by the difficult news, but he remained determined to fight:

“I know this is a long road, and I’m fully prepared to fight as hard as I can.”

He received treatment in Rhode Island and at Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Even as his illness progressed, he continued to share hopeful updates with his supporters. In one of his final photos, smiling from his hospital bed with a thumbs-up, he thanked people for their love and encouragement.

Just days before his passing, he humbly asked once more for prayers:

“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.”

According to his family, Judge Caprio passed away peacefully at 2:15 p.m., after a long and courageous battle.

 

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Early Life and Career

Frank Caprio was born on November 24, 1936, in Providence’s Federal Hill neighborhood to hardworking Italian-American parents. As a boy, he shined shoes, delivered newspapers, and worked on a milk truck to help his family.

He went on to graduate from Providence College before earning his law degree at Suffolk University, all while teaching government at Hope High School. His career in public service began in 1962 with his election to the Providence City Council, followed by decades of leadership in education, including serving as chair of the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education.

 

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Legacy of Kindness

Judge Frank Caprio’s legacy extends far beyond the courtroom. He will be remembered for rulings delivered with empathy, for moments that turned into viral symbols of hope, and for showing the world that justice can be both fair and compassionate.

From Rhode Island to audiences across the globe, millions were inspired by his humanity. As tributes pour in, one truth is clear: Judge Caprio’s kindness will continue to echo far beyond his lifetime.