Sun Apr 27 00:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis Remembered as Beloved Uncle Jorge by Family, While World Mourns
**Vatican City** – The world bids farewell to Pope Francis, whose funeral mass drew hundreds of thousands to St. Peter’s Square on Saturday. However, for his family, the pontiff remained simply “Jorge Mario,” a loving uncle whose passing brought both sorrow and a sense of peace.
José Ignacio Bergoglio, the Pope’s nephew, shared intimate details of his uncle’s life with BBC News Mundo, painting a portrait of a man who, despite his global influence, remained deeply connected to his family. He recalled the profound shock of witnessing the papal election on television, a moment punctuated by tears and a frantic phone call to his mother. Later that evening, he received a call from the newly elected Pope himself, a surprisingly informal conversation featuring the affectionate—and slightly profane—”boludo.”
José Ignacio described Jorge Mario as a warm, approachable uncle who, even amidst the solemnity of his role, never lost his spontaneity and sense of humor. He played a crucial paternal role in his nephew’s life, alongside his uncle Alberto. The nephew recalled valuable advice received during his youth from his uncle, then a cardinal, urging him to effect positive change through committed action, a message that profoundly shaped his life.
While the family will not attend the funeral in Rome, choosing instead to honor his memory through charitable donations, José Ignacio shared cherished memories, including a recent conversation about his wife’s pregnancy, a moment filled with joy and emotion. He emphasized that the Pope’s legacy was one of solidarity, humility, and unwavering commitment.
World leaders and dignitaries attended the historic funeral service alongside hundreds of thousands of mourners, a testament to Pope Francis’s global impact. The service marked the end of an era for the Catholic Church, but for the Bergoglio family, it signified the peaceful passing of their beloved Jorge Mario.
First Piper 