Rep. Jim McGovern announced Thursday that his cancer-stricken 23-year-old daughter Molly died “unexpectedly” while on a trip to Italy.
Molly McGovern, the Massachusetts Democratic congressman’s only daughter, had been visiting a close friend and his family after completing a study abroad stint in Australia, her family said in a statement.
McGovern, his wife Lisa and their son Patrick didn’t reveal Molly’s cause of death, but noted that she had battled a rare form of cancer.
“Even as she faced a rare cancer diagnosis, she did so with relentless courage, optimism, and tenacity —refusing to let her illness slow her down,” they said.
They described Molly as the “soul of our family” and said that she “radiated pure joy.”
“She lit up every room with her beaming smile—full of laughter, endless warmth, and a sharp wit that could disarm you in an instant. She was unbelievably funny, fiercely loyal, and wise beyond her years,” the statement said.
“Molly had a rare gift: She made everyone feel special, because she genuinely believed everyone was special. She treated people with compassion and kindness — always standing up for the underdog, and making fast friends wherever she went.”
The family also noted that Molly was a diehard fan of the Boston Bruins.
“But it was no match for the love she gave so freely to her family and friends,” the family said. “If you ever met Molly, you carried a piece of her light with you. She had that kind of effect on people.”
Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey was among those who offered condolences to the McGovern family, saying she was “heartbroken” by the news.
“Molly was a light in her family’s lives and the lives of so many. She was a kind, smart and compassionate young woman who touched the lives of many,” Healey said in a statement.
“We are all feeling the sadness of her being taken too soon. Joanna and I are sending all of our love and support to Congressman McGovern, Lisa, Patrick and all of their loved ones during this difficult time.”
McGovern, the top Democrat on the powerful House Rules Committee, has represented the Bay State in Congress since 1997, serving the Worcester-anchored 2nd Congressional District since 2013.
