After living a full 88 years, Caught in Providence’s “The Nicest Judge in the World” passed away from cancer on August 20, 2025. Judge Frank Caprio’s family announced his passing and shared funeral details after his death. Fox TV’s “Nicest Judge in the World” made the audience smile and laugh during his court proceedings. During the show, Judge Caprio often invited children to sit behind the bench and serve as “mini-judges,” helping kids feel welcome in the courtroom, and he treated everyone with kindness and goodwill. Judge Caprio will be sorely missed.
Judge Caprio was raised by supportive parents who valued hard work, education, and service, which shaped his life. Caprio taught these values to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. According to Caprio’s obituary from Nardolillo Funeral Home, his parents were Italian immigrants who raised their children in the Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence, where Judge Caprio earned All-State honors in wrestling in which led him to college at Rhode Island and eventually the Hall of Fame. Caprio worked hard to get into college with three jobs just to pay for it. All of this led up to the person he was and the judge he became.
According to BBC News, “He was a loving husband to his wife Joyce, a father to his five children, grandfather to seven, great-grandfather to two, and friend to all.” Just one day before Judge Caprio’s passing, he asked his followers for prayers as his health continued to decline. He was surrounded by his family the day of his death. Judge Frank Caprio’s family posted on his social media funeral the details of the burial was private. David Caprio, his son, thanked his father’s fans for showing love and support while Judge Caprio fought his battle with cancer.
Judge Caprio’s fame began with the show Caught in Providence, where his compassion and humor in court earned him the title, “The nicest judge in the world.” He completed thousands of cases in his hometown, Federal Hill, Providence, Rhode Island, making friends along his journey for over 40 years. According to Nardolillo Funeral Home, the court began filming in 1992. Judge Caprio started filming his court proceedings, making him famous on social media with over 26 million followers. Judge Caprio shared his mourning routine, signing his book, and watching his own show, Caught In Providence.
Judge Caprio’s passing marks the end of his long journey. Caprio will be remembered by his warmth, humor, and the ability to make others smile. According to his obituary at the Nardolillo Funeral Home, Judge Caprio lived by two quotes and taught his children: “Family comes first”, “Always be nice and help people”. He followed those well, making others smile and laugh in the courtroom. Judge Caprio was an amazing man with so much love to give. Judge Caprio reminded us to “Enjoy every minute of your life. Be close to your family, be close to your friends, and have compassion and understanding of other people.” Rest in peace, Judge Frank Caprio. You will be dearly missed.
