Pope Francis Death Certificate Sparks Confusion With Coma Claim

Pope Francis’ unexpected death has sent shockwaves through the world, and now questions are surfacing about the timeline of his final moments.

Ahead of his death, Francis had been dealing with multiple health problems in recent months, including a February hospitalization for double pneumonia and bronchitis.

Now, new documents have confirmed his cause of death.

TMZ has learned the 87-year-old pontiff died early Monday morning from a stroke and irreversible heart failure, according to his official death certificate released by the Vatican.

Even more eyebrow-raising? The same certificate confirms Francis had been in a coma before his death. That detail is raising some confusion, considering he was just seen the day before greeting U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance at the Vatican on Easter Sunday.

The Vatican hasn’t addressed the timeline discrepancy.

As The Blast reported, Pope Francis stepped out onto the gallery of St. Peter’s Basilica to greet the crowd after Easter Mass.

During the appearance, the Pope delivered a powerful message focused on unity, freedom, and peace. While an aide read most of his Easter remarks, the message was clear. “There can be no peace without freedom of religion, freedom of thought, freedom of expression.”

The pontiff used his final blessing to address global unrest, highlighting the devastating violence in Gaza, which he described as a “deplorable humanitarian situation.” Reflecting on several ongoing world conflicts, he shared a somber thought, “What a great thirst for death, for killing we see in many conflicts raging in different parts of the world.”

He also expressed solidarity with both Israelis and Palestinians, urging leaders to “Call a ceasefire, release the hostages and come to the aid of a starving people that aspires to a future of peace.”

On Monday morning, a statement confirmed his death.

"Dearest brothers and sisters, with deep sorrow, I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis," the statement began. "At 7:35 this morning (local time), the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the father. His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and His Church."

As for his final wishes, the Pope apparently planned for a modest burial. The Vatican says Francis requested to be laid to rest at the Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, one of the city’s most iconic and historic churches.

His tomb, per his request, will be “in the ground; simple, without particular ornamentation, bearing only the inscription: Franciscus.”

The statement continued, "He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with fidelity, courage and universal love, especially in favour of the poorest and most marginalized."

The death was confirmed by Vatican doctor Andrea Arcangeli, who cited a stroke and heart complications as the cause. But the close timing between his Easter appearance and his sudden passing is leaving many wondering if we’re getting the full story.

The world is mourning the loss of Pope Francis, and the tributes from global powerhouses are pouring in fast.

Shortly after the Vatican confirmed the Pope’s death, political leaders and public figures across the globe took to social media and press platforms to honor the late pontiff’s legacy, compassion, and tireless efforts for peace.

The White House shared a solemn post on X (formerly Twitter), writing simply: "Rest in Peace, Pope Francis." The message was paired with two poignant photos, one of President Donald Trump and Melania Trump meeting the Pope during a previous visit, and another showing the Pope with Vice President J.D. Vance taken just this past Easter Sunday, just hours before the pontiff’s sudden passing.

Across the pond, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer shared his condolences with a touching message:

“Deeply saddened to hear of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis. His tireless efforts to promote a world that is fairer for all will leave a lasting legacy. On behalf of the people of the United Kingdom, I share my sincerest condolences to the whole Catholic Church.”

Starmer also included a lengthier statement reflecting on the Pope’s moral leadership and influence around the world.

King Charles III also issued a heartfelt statement, expressing sadness over the Pope’s passing and fondly recalling past meetings between the monarch and Pope Francis. The King emphasized how deeply moved both he and Queen Camilla were during their time with the Holy Father.

The wave of tributes didn’t stop there. Leaders from around the world chimed in, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, each sharing condolences and reflecting on the Pope’s global impact.