Striking pain even in a prominent family, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA) and his family announced the heartbreaking loss of their 23-year-old daughter.
See the tweet below.
The Massachusetts congressman’s daughter passed united politicians from both sides of the aisle in grief over this devastating family tragedy.
The McGovern family released a joint statement announcing the devastating news, describing how their daughter had been visiting a friend in Italy when she suddenly passed away.
Despite her ongoing battle with a rare cancer diagnosis, Molly McGovern had continued living life to the fullest, recently completing a semester abroad in Australia before her trip to Europe.
Her death came as a complete shock to her family and friends, who had watched her face her illness with remarkable determination.
McGovern, who has represented Massachusetts since 1997 and the state’s 2nd Congressional District since 2013, shared the heartbreaking news through social media and an official statement.
The congressman, along with his wife Lisa and son Patrick, expressed their profound grief while celebrating the extraordinary impact their daughter had on everyone who knew her.
Molly’s passing prompted an outpouring of support from colleagues across the political spectrum.
During her diagnosis, Molly approached her rare cancer diagnosis with remarkable strength and resilience.
According to family statements, she refused to allow her illness to define her or limit her adventures.
Even while undergoing treatment, she maintained her vibrant personality and continued pursuing her dreams, including traveling internationally.
Her tenacity in the face of serious health challenges inspires others facing similar battles.
Moreover, the McGovern family described their daughter as someone who “lit up every room with her beaming smile,” noting her warmth, sharp wit, and ability to make everyone feel valued.
Her passion for the Boston Bruins and dedication to her family and wide circle of friends were well-known.
Throughout her health struggles, she maintained a positive outlook that inspired those around her, never allowing her diagnosis to diminish her zest for life.
“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,” The McGoverns remarked.
Congressman Jim McGovern, his wife Lisa McGovern, and their son Patrick McGovern released the following statement upon the passing of Congressman McGovern’s daughter, Molly McGovern:
Molly radiated pure joy. She lit up every room with her beaming smile—full of laughter, endless…— Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) April 24, 2025
In a rare display of unity that transcends today’s partisan politics, representatives from both parties have put aside their differences to support the McGovern family in their time of grief.
Congressman Jamie Raskin (D-MD) praised Molly’s compassion and love for animals, while Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY) offered prayers and sympathies to the family.
Despite fierce policy disagreements, this outpouring of bipartisan support shows that lawmakers can still come together as human beings in times of profound personal tragedy.
Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey joined numerous state and local officials in expressing condolences, describing Molly as “a light in her family’s lives and the lives of so many.”
Worcester Mayor Joe Petty and U.S. Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA) both emphasized her remarkable strength and compassionate nature.
McGovern is tragically the second congressman this month to experience the loss of a daughter, following Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ).
This highlights the personal sacrifices and heartaches that can affect those who serve the country regardless of political affiliation.
