Eagles Community Mourns the Passing of Compassionate Judge at 88

Philadelphia, PA – Frank Caprio, the retired municipal judge from Rhode Island who became a global symbol of compassion through his courtroom TV show Caught in Providence, has passed away at the age of 88 after what his family described as “a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.”

Caprio rose to fame for his unique style on the bench, where kindness and empathy guided every decision. His courtroom was known as a place “where people and cases are met with kindness,” often blending humor with humanity. Clips of him listening patiently to struggling families, forgiving fines, and comforting those in pain have been viewed more than a billion times across social media platforms.

His family remembered him as “a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend,” praising his humility, warmth, and belief in the goodness of people. Politicians and community leaders alike mourned his passing, calling him a symbol of empathy in a system too often marked by conflict. Caprio retired in 2023 after nearly four decades on the bench, leaving behind a legacy that changed the way millions view justice.

For the Eagles community, the loss feels especially close. Caprio was a fan of Philadelphia football, a love he shared with his son, a lifelong Eagles supporter. His presence at games and his passion for the team made him one of Eagles Nation’s most unexpected but beloved figures.

Caprio’s son, speaking through tears, said with heartbreak: “I just watched last week’s Eagles game with my father. He promised me that once he recovered, we would go to Philly together to see a game in person. But now that promise will never be kept — and the seat beside me will forever feel empty"

As Eagles fans prepare for a new season, they honor Frank Caprio not only as a judge who inspired with kindness, but as one of their own — a man whose spirit of empathy and love for the game will remain forever tied to Philadelphia.