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Massachusetts congressman Jim McGovern's daughter, Molly McGovern, who had a rare cancer diagnosis, unexpectedly died at 23 years old while visiting loved ones in Italy.
Celebrity Deaths: 2025’s Fallen Stars
Congressman Jim McGovern is mourning the death of his 23-year-old daughter Molly McGovern.
The Massachusetts congressman shared that Molly "passed away unexpectedly in Italy while visiting a good friend and his family,” per a statement on his X page on behalf of himself, his wife Lisa McGovern and son Patrick McGovern.
While Molly’s death was unexpected, Jim also shared that his daughter had been battling a rare form of cancer, although he did not confirm whether it was the cause of her death.
"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," he wrote. "She had just finished a semester abroad in Australia."
Jim, 65, continued to share more of his beloved daughter's qualities.
"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," he said. "She was unbelievably funny, fiercely loyal, and wise beyond her years."
The politician, who has represented Massachusetts's 2nd congressional district since 2013, highlighted his daughter's kindness to others.
"Molly had a rare gift: She made everyone feel special, because she genuinely believed everyone was special," he shared. "She treated people with compassion and kindness—always standing up for the underdog, and making fast friends wherever she went."
The Worcester, Mass., native, whose wife Lisa is the executive director of the Prevent Cancer Foundation Congressional Families Program, shared more insight on his daughter's love for both their favorite hockey team and the ones she cared about most.
"Her love for the Boston Bruins was fierce, but it was no match for the love she gave so freely to her family and friends," he continued. "If you ever met Molly, you carried a piece of her light with you. She had that kind of effect on people."
Photo by Paul Morigi/WireImage for The Recording Academy
Ending his statement, he emphasized his love for his daughter once more.
"Molly will always be the soul of our family," he added. "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."
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