Judge Frank Caprio, known as “The Nicest Judge in the World,” has died at 88 after battling pancreatic cancer. His family confirmed his passing on Instagram, remembering him as “a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.” Rhode Island leaders said, “Judge Caprio embodied the spirit of Rhode Island and its people.”

Caprio gained worldwide admiration through his TV show Caught in Providence, where his humor, fairness, and empathy made his rulings go viral. “He truly saw the humanity in everyone,” lawmakers said, noting how his compassion inspired kindness globally.

Born in 1936 to Italian-American parents in Providence, Caprio worked humble jobs before earning a law degree while teaching. He later served on the Providence City Council and chaired the Rhode Island Board of Governors for Higher Education.

As Providence’s chief municipal judge, he led the court for nearly 40 years, officially retiring in 2023. He also created scholarships, supported charities, and founded the Filomena Fund to help residents pay fines.

In his final message, shared from a hospital bed, Caprio thanked supporters: “Everywhere I go, I’m reminded that my legacy still lives on, and that is the most priceless gift in the world.”