Papa Francis, who breathed his last at 88 following a stroke that led to a coma and irreversible heart failure, had clearly laid out his final resting wishes. Just a day prior to his passing, he made a surprise appearance at St. Peter’s Square during Easter, greeting the faithful with a warm presence despite his fragile health.

The head of the Catholic Church died in his Santa Marta residence inside the Vatican, barely a month after being released from a prolonged hospital stay due to severe pneumonia. His final will, penned on June 29, 2022, was made public by the Vatican, capturing the depth of his spiritual devotion and personal humility.

In his testament, Papa Francis revealed a deep lifelong trust in Mary, the Mother of Christ. He requested that his body be interred in the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a church he frequently visited after his international travels. The fifth-century Marian shrine held deep emotional and spiritual value for the pontiff.

He asked to be buried in a plain grave in the ground, located in the side nave between the Pauline Chapel and Sforza Chapel. The tomb was to be unadorned, carrying only one word: Franciscus.

He directed that all expenses be covered by a donation he had arranged and entrusted Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas with the burial preparations. Pope Francis offered the final chapter of his life as a sacrifice for global peace and unity among people.

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