Christian Judge, Frank Caprio, Dies One Day after Requesting Prayer

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Frank Caprio, the chief municipal judge in Providence, Rhode Island, who was best known for being on the "Caught in Providence" television series, passed away from pancreatic cancer at the age of 88. In a video statement on his Facebook page on Wednesday, Caprio's son, David Caprio, announced his father's passing. 

"It is with profound sadness that I share the news that my father, Judge Frank Caprio, passed away today peacefully surrounded by family and friends after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer," he said.

"On behalf of my entire family, I want to thank each and every one of you for your prayers, your thoughts, and your unwavering support for him throughout his journey. Your love lifted [him] in ways that words cannot describe," he continued.

David also noted that his father was initially expected to die earlier after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer 2 years ago, but that he managed to "outlive his diagnosis" thanks to uplifting public support.

"My father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about two years ago, and he had great medical doctors to treat his physical illness. However, it was the love and the support that he received from all of you that lifted his spirits and boosted his soul to find the strength to fight on and outlive his diagnosis by a year-and-a half," David Caprio said. "So, in his memory, spread a little kindness today. I know he would love that."

Caprio's death comes literally a day after the beloved judge asked his supporters for prayer. 

"Last year I asked you to pray for me, and it's very obvious that you did because I came through a very difficult period. Unfortunately, I've had a setback. And I'm back in the hospital now, and I'm coming to you asking you again to remember me in your prayers once more," he said in a video. "I'm a great believer in the power of prayers. I think the Almighty above is looking over us. So remember me, please."

Aside from serving as the chief municipal judge in Providence, Caprio also served as the former chairman of the Rhode Island Board of Governors — a position he was re-appointed to six times since he was first appointed in 1985.

In a statement by Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee, the judge was remembered as a "state treasure."

"Judge Caprio was a Rhode Island treasure. As we mourn his passing, my thoughts go out to his family, friends, and all who loved him. I've also directed Rhode Island flags at all state agencies and buildings to be flown at half-staff in Judge Caprio's memory. I ask all Rhode Islanders to lower their flags as a sign of respect," stated McKee.

"He was more than a jurist — he was a symbol of empathy on the bench, showing us what is possible when justice is tempered with humanity. Whether you grew up watching Judge Caprio on television or first saw his kindness touch lives around the world on social media, there is no question that his legacy will leave a lasting mark across generations."

 

Caprio is survived by his wife, Joyce Caprio, five children, and multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Related Resource: James Dobson's Candid Interview with Pastor Greg Laurie: His Childhood, Marriage, and How to Build Strong Families

Pastor Greg Laurie sits down with renowned psychologist, author, and speaker Dr. James Dobson. As the founder of Focus on the Family and Family Talk, Dr. Dobson has shaped generations through his nationally syndicated radio programs and bestselling books like Bringing Up Boys, The Strong-Willed Child, and Dare to Discipline. Their conversation spans Dr. Dobson’s formative years, his marriage, and his enduring commitment to building strong, faith-centered families.

Listeners will also hear reflections on Dr. Dobson’s historic interview with serial killer Ted Bundy, conducted on the eve of Bundy’s execution—a moment that underscored the urgency of moral clarity and parental guidance. Together, Pastor Laurie and Dr. Dobson explore how to raise children with Heaven in mind, emphasizing the divine inspiration behind family and the spiritual responsibility of parenting. This wide-ranging interview offers timeless wisdom for anyone seeking to nurture a godly home.

Pastor Greg's statement on the passing of James Dobson:

Dr. James Dobson has gone to Heaven at the age of 89.

I knew James very well, and I can tell you he was a true man of God who lived a life of integrity. I’ll never forget that after our son Christopher went to Heaven 17 years ago, Dr. Dobson personally called us and spent a great deal of time ministering to our whole family.

Over the years I had the privilege of interviewing him many times, including once at a Harvest Crusade, and he also interviewed me on his radio program. We went on a trip to Israel together, as well as to the White House on more than one occasion. He and his devoted wife Shirley shared such a beautiful marriage—one that we would all aspire to.

His life and ministry touched millions as he faithfully taught us how to build godly families. He was a legend, a treasure to the church, and he will be greatly missed.

Listen to Pastor Laurie and Dr. Dobson's conversation by clicking the play button below. If you enjoy this conversation, be sure to follow The Greg Laurie Show on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!

Photo Credit: ©YouTube/FrankCaprio

Milton Quintanilla is a freelance writer and content creator. He is a contributing writer for CrosswalkHeadlines and the host of the For Your Soul Podcast, a podcast devoted to sound doctrine and biblical truth. He holds a Masters of Divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary.