Community invited to honor death of Pope Francis at Meierhoffer

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Meierhoffer Funeral Home and Crematory is providing a way for community members to honor Pope Francis, following his death on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025.

Meierhoffer will provide a register book at its facility, located 5005 Frederick Ave.

"An event like this, even though you never knew Pope Francis personally, is still something that leaves people with a loss to deal with. In addition to our prayers for Pope Francis and the Church, many people feel the need to physically go somewhere and do something to mark the loss," said Todd Meierhoffer, one of the owners of the family business. "Signing a register book is a simple and respectful way to take time out of your day and remember Pope Francis."

Meierhoffer Funeral Home and Crematory has provided this service before, especially with previous passings of influential figures.

According to the Associated Press, the cause of Pope Francis' death was a cerebral stroke, which led to a coma and irreversible heart failure.

Francis' death brings a week-long process when it comes to allowing people to pay their final respects.

He has decreed in his will that he be buried in St. Mary Major Basilica in a simple underground tomb.

Funeral plans have not yet been announced for the Pope, but the registry book is now available to sign at Meierhoffer Funeral Home and Crematory.