'Soul Of Our Family': MA Congressman's Daughter Dies During Trip To Italy

WORCESTER, MA — Messages of sorrow and support for U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Worcester) and his family came pouring in on Thursday after the Congressman announced that his daughter, Molly, died during a trip to Italy. She was 23.

McGovern, his wife, Lisa, and son, Patrick, said Molly McGovern died following the diagnosis of a rare cancer during a trip to visit her close friend and his family in Europe.

"Even as she faced a rare cancer diagnosis, she did so with relentless courage, optimism, and tenacity," the statement said, "refusing to let her illness slow her down."

The statement said McGovern also recently completed a semester studying abroad in Australia and that she "will always be the soul of our family."

"Molly radiated pure joy," the McGoverns said. "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. Molly had a rare gift: She made everyone feel special because she genuinely believed everyone was special."

The McGoverns said Molly's "love for the Boston Bruins was fierce, but it was no match for the love she gave so freely to her family and friends."

"If you ever met Molly, you carried a piece of her light with you," her family said. "She had that kind of effect on people."

Gov. Maura Healey and U.S. Rep. Katherine Clark (D-Revere) were among those who issued statements following Molly McGovern's death.

"I can imagine no greater pain as a parent than losing a child," Clark said. "Molly was an incredible source of light and love in their lives and cherished in our congressional family. My thoughts and prayers are with the McGoverns at this devastating time of grief."

"Molly was a light in her family's lives and the lives of so many," Healey said. "She was a kind, smart and compassionate young woman who touched the lives of many. We are all feeling the sadness of her being taken too soon."

"(First Lady) Joanna (Lydgate) 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."