Molly McGovern, 23, daughter of Massachusetts Rep. James McGovern, passed away on April 23 while vacationing in Italy.

She became ill after dinner with friends and died suddenly. Diagnosed with a rare cancer at 18, Molly continued to live fully and meaningfully.
“She lit up every room,” her father said at her funeral on May 3 in Worcester, remembering her as joyful, witty, and compassionate. Her mother, Lisa, called her final years “filled with little miracles,” adding, “Who would have thought the last five years would be the best?”

Molly studied political science and international affairs at Northeastern University and had just finished a semester in Australia.

Her brother Patrick called her “the soul of our family,” reflecting the deep bond they shared.
Rep. McGovern said Molly made everyone feel seen and valued, “always standing up for the underdog.” Her memory lives on through the many lives she touched.