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Pope Francis, the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church, died on April 21, 2025, at his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta. He was widely respected for his humility, compassion, and advocacy for the marginalized, sparking global reflection on his legacy.
While many praised his papacy, attention also turned to his early life — particularly his brief childhood romance with Amalia Damonte, the only woman ever linked to him romantically. At age 12, he gave her a note promising a future together, but her parents intervened and separated them. Years later, Damonte revealed he once told her, “If I can’t marry you, I’ll become a priest.” She later dismissed their relationship as innocent and said she was shocked to see her former neighbor become Pope.
Francis never aspired to be Pope, according to his sister, María Elena, who recalled him joking, “No, please no,” when the idea was brought up. Still, she saw his leadership as a blessing.
In his final years, Francis faced serious health issues, including double pneumonia and kidney complications. Despite his illness, he remained engaged with the public and participated in Mass from his hospital bed. He expressed gratitude for global support, especially from children.
Breaking with tradition, Pope Francis chose not to be buried at St. Peter’s Basilica but instead at Rome’s Basilica of St. Mary Major, a place of personal devotion. His choice made him the first Pope since 1669 to be buried there.
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