Sarah Ferguson pays tribute to Pope Francis in surprising message: ‘Thank you for leading us’
Sarah Ferguson has paid tribute to Pope Francis following his death at the age of 88.
The Duchess of York shared a heartfelt message on social media praising the late pontiff.
“No better example of total humility in kindness and compassion,” she wrote.
She added: “Thank you for leading us not just with words but with your unwavering service to humanity.”
Sarah Ferguson pays tribute to Pope Francis in surprising message: ‘Thank you for leading us’
Getty / X
Her surprise tribute comes as the world mourns the passing of the head of the Catholic Church, who died earlier today in Vatican City.
The Pope’s death has prompted an outpouring of grief from royal figures and dignitaries worldwide.
King Charles has also expressed his sorrow at the Pope’s passing, saying he was “deeply saddened” to learn of his death.
His Majesty released a statement through Buckingham Palace addressing the loss.
No better example of total humility in kindness and compassion. Thank you for leading us not just with words, but with your unwavering service to humanity. pic.twitter.com/tJfdJDHWoC
— Sarah Ferguson (Fergie) (@SarahTheDuchess) April 21, 2025
The King noted that he and Queen Camilla’s “heavy hearts have been somewhat eased” knowing the Pope had shared an Easter Greeting before his death.
The royal couple had met with Pope Francis just weeks ago during their visit to Italy.
Their audience with His Holiness took place on April 9 in the Vatican City.
The King remarked that they were “greatly moved” to have had this final opportunity to meet with the pontiff.
Pope Francis has died at the age of 88
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Pope Francis had been battling health problems in recent months, including a bout of pneumonia that required hospitalisation.
Despite these challenges, he had recovered sufficiently to hold the private audience with King Charles and Queen Camilla.
The pontiff had also been seen at public events over the Easter weekend. He had recently met with US Vice President JD Vance in the days before his death.
The announcement of his passing came early on Easter Monday. His death has sent more than a billion Catholics worldwide into mourning.
King Charles and Queen Camilla posed beside an ailing Pope Francis during their royal tourVatican Media
Pope Francis was the first Latin American pope and will be “remembered for his compassion,” according to King Charles.
In his full statement, King Charles said Pope Francis “will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith.”
The King highlighted the Pope’s environmental advocacy, noting: “His belief that care for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God resounded with so many across the world.”
His Majesty added: “Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.”
The statement concluded with the King expressing “most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy” to the Church and “countless people” mourning “this faithful follower of Jesus Christ.”
