The final images of Pope Francis in his wooden coffin moved millions, reflecting a life defined by humility, not grandeur. As the Vatican stated, “each carefully chosen detail… spoke volumes about the values that guided his life.” He passed away peacefully at 88 in his modest Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, after suffering a massive stroke.

His body was shown in red vestments, with a rosary in his hands, a mitre and crozier beside him, and the broken Fisherman’s Ring still on his finger. These items symbolized sacrifice, spiritual leadership, and the end of his papacy. Coins minted during his time and a “rogito” summarizing his life were placed with him, but most striking was his choice of a simple zinc-lined wooden casket — a clear rejection of extravagance.

Unlike most popes, Francis will not be buried in St. Peter’s Basilica but at Santa Maria Maggiore, a church deeply personal to him. “He once said he hoped to be buried there,” and now that wish is honored.

His open-air funeral will be held April 26. The public may pay respects closely, “not from afar,” as he always preferred closeness to ceremony. “He never sought adoration — only attention to the forgotten.”