This article has been updated to include a statement from Gov. Maura Healey.
U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern, D-2nd District, announced on Thursday the death of his daughter, Molly McGovern.
McGovern, his wife Lisa McGovern, and their son Patrick McGovern confirmed Molly McGovern’s death in a statement.
The family said Molly McGovern had just finished a semester abroad in Australia and had died unexpectedly in Italy while visiting a good friend and his family, according to the statement.
She was 23-years-old.
“Molly 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,“ the McGovern family said in its statement. ”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. “
McGovern’s daughter was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, according to the statement. She was a fan of the Boston Bruins but “it was no match for the love she gave so freely to her family and friends.”
“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,” the McGovern family said. “We love you, Molly. We miss you already.”
In a statement, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey said she was “heartbroken for the McGovern family over the loss of their beloved Molly. 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.
“We are all feeling the sadness of her being taken too soon,” Healey said. “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.”
