Molly Mcgovern, the 23-year-old daughter of Massachusetts Congressman Jim McGovern, died unexpectedly this week in Italy. The family shared the sad news Thursday.
Molly McGovern faced a rare cancer diagnosis in recent years. Her family said she met this challenge with notable courage and tenacity. She refused to let the illness define her or slow her down.
The family described Molly McGovern as a person who radiated pure joy. They said her beaming smile lit up rooms. She was full of laughter and endless warmth, possessing a sharp wit.
Her family called her unbelievably funny and fiercely loyal. They said she was wise beyond her years. Molly had a special gift; she made everyone feel special. She genuinely believed everyone was special.
Molly McGovern was a student at Northeastern University. She studied political science and government there. She planned to graduate this year. She recently completed a semester abroad in Australia.
She died unexpectedly while visiting a good friend and his family in Assisi, Italy, according to the family's statement. The exact cause of death at that moment was not specified.
Molly McGovern had been politically active during her college years. She volunteered in Maryland Representative Jamie Raskin’s office in 2022. Later, she interned at the Dewey Square Group. She also worked as a sports museum ambassador at TD Garden last year. She deeply cared about the environment and showed concern for ocean cleanups, as seen in online activity.
Her mother, Lisa McGovern, serves as executive director for a program focused on cancer prevention. The family has faced cancer before, including Lisa McGovern's mother.
Support flowed in for the McGovern family quickly. Other Massachusetts officials and congressional colleagues offered condolences. Representative Jamie Raskin wrote in a statement that the world is poorer without her. He called her beautiful and irrepressibly spirited. His family adored Molly McGovern. They found inspiration in her love for animals, passion for sports, and compassion for others.
Governor Maura Healey said in a statement she was heartbroken by the loss. She called Molly McGovern a light in many lives. Healey described her as a kind, smart, and compassionate young woman. Steve Kerrigan, Massachusetts Democratic Party chair, said in a statement that the world lost a bright light. He called her a gift to those who knew her. He added that she fought cancer hard but never lost her joy or optimism.
The McGovern family statement concluded: “Molly will always be the soul of our family. We are so proud of her, and so glad that so many people were touched by her incredible life. We love you, Molly. We miss you already.”