Judge Frank Caprio Remembered for His Compassion
Judge Frank Caprio, celebrated for his empathy and kindness in Rhode Island’s judicial system, has passed away at 88, as reported by his son, David Caprio, in a social media announcement on Wednesday.
Caprio, who served as a judge for the Providence Municipal Court, succumbed to pancreatic cancer, a condition he had battled after going public with his diagnosis in December 2023. David Caprio noted that his father’s enduring spirit was buoyed by the love and support from the community, enabling him to outlive expectations by a year and a half.
A Lasting Impact on the Community
“Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond,” the family statement expressed. “His warmth, humor, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”
Caprio gained national recognition through his humorous and compassionate handling of traffic and criminal cases, which went viral on social media. His unique approach resonated with audiences, turning legal proceedings into moments of connection.
From Humble Beginnings to the Bench
Born in Providence, Caprio grew up on Federal Hill as the second of three sons. He held various jobs in his early years, including shining shoes, delivering newspapers, and working on a milk truck. After graduating from Providence College in 1958, he began a career teaching American government at a local high school while attending night classes at Suffolk University School of Law in Boston.
Caprio served as a judge from 1985 until his passing in 2023. His life was notably depicted in the Emmy-nominated TV series “Caught in Providence,” which aired from 2018 to 2020, showcasing his daily courtroom experiences and further boosting his fame.
Inspiration Through Adversity
Before his diagnosis, Caprio spoke candidly about how his challenging upbringing without hot running water in a poor neighborhood influenced his empathetic outlook. Reflecting on his role, he shared, “I’m just a small-town municipal court judge, just trying to do good… And remember what my dad told me, when someone appears before you, put yourself in their shoes, imagine it’s you before them. How do you want to be treated?”
In an interview with “CBS Mornings” in 2024, Caprio described the difficulty of facing a serious illness, saying, “It’s not a pleasant experience to go to bed at night, say your prayers. And suddenly you have one extra thing you have to ask for… please help the treatment be successful for the pancreatic cancer. And I think we’re on the way.”
A Loving Family Left Behind
Judge Frank Caprio leaves behind his wife Joyce, with whom he shared almost sixty years, as well as five children, seven grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. His legacy of compassion and service will continue to inspire many in the Rhode Island community and beyond.
