On April 26, 2025, Representative Jim McGovern shared that his daughter Molly had passed away while traveling abroad, just after finishing a semester overseas.

In a statement posted on Instagram, McGovern announced that his 23-year-old daughter, Molly McGovern, had died unexpectedly while visiting friends in Italy. He mentioned that she had recently completed a semester studying in Australia before making her trip to Europe.

Alongside his message, McGovern shared a collection of photos showing Molly throughout her life, from her early childhood to more recent moments. In his heartfelt tribute, McGovern wrote, “Lisa, Patrick, and I—along with our whole family and so many dear friends who knew and loved Molly—are heartbroken by her loss.”

He remembered Molly as someone who “radiated pure joy,” bringing “laughter, endless warmth, and a sharp wit that could disarm you in an instant.” McGovern praised her as “unbelievably funny, fiercely loyal, and wise beyond her years,” adding that she had “a rare gift” for making others feel valued.

He also spoke about Molly’s love for the Boston Bruins and said that even her deep loyalty to the hockey team could not match the love she shared with family and friends. Despite battling a rare cancer, Molly remained determined, showing “relentless courage, optimism, and tenacity,” according to her father.

In his tribute, McGovern expressed that Molly “will always be the soul of our family.” He said, “We are so proud of her, and so glad that so many people were touched by her incredible life.”

Reflecting the deep impact she had on others, he added, “If you ever met Molly, you carried a piece of her light with you. She had that kind of effect on people.” McGovern ended his tribute with a final message, “We love you, Molly. We miss you already.”

Molly was deeply involved in her academic and professional pursuits. She was studying for a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Government, focusing on International Affairs, at Northeastern University. During her academic career, she also spent time at Bond University in Australia.

Beyond her studies, Molly had built an impressive resume. She worked as a Sports Museum Ambassador at TD Garden, enhancing the visitor experience at the museum. She interned at Dewey Square Group, where she applied her knowledge of political science and international affairs to support public policy initiatives.

Molly also volunteered at Representative Jamie Raskin’s office, interned at NP Agency, and worked in customer service at McGovern’s Greendale Liquors. Earlier in her life, she volunteered for Tim Walz’s congressional campaign. Her passion for community service and understanding global issues marked her commitment to making a difference.

Following the news of Molly’s death, several political figures publicly expressed their condolences. Representative Raskin shared a touching tribute on X, saying, “Molly exuded compassion for family, friends, people everywhere and animals. We have always adored her and we embrace the McGoverns during this hard, hard time.”

He added, “The world is a poorer place today than it was yesterday as we wake up to the hard reality of life without Molly McGovern,[..] We embrace the McGoverns and hold them tight during this hard, hard time.” Rules Committee Chairwoman Virginia Foxx also released a statement.

“The loss of a child, no matter the age, is one of the greatest heartbreaks imaginable. Ranking Member McGovern and his entire family remain in my thoughts and prayers. In this difficult time of loss, may they find continued comfort, peace, and strength from their faith and from those around them,” she wrote.

Democratic Whip Katherine Clark shared her sympathies as well, stating, “My heart breaks for Jim, Lisa, Patrick, and the entire McGovern family. I can imagine no greater pain as a parent than losing a child. Molly was an incredible source of light and love in their lives and cherished in our congressional family.”

Just a day before Molly’s passing, her father had been involved in an official visit to a Louisiana ICE detention facility. Earlier in the week, McGovern, alongside Senator Ed Markey and Representative Ayanna Pressley, visited Tufts student Rumeysa Ozturk, who had been detained by ICE.

The lawmakers pledged continued support for Ozturk, with Pressley emphasizing the urgency of defending students’ First Amendment rights and protecting vulnerable individuals from unjust detentions.

In previous years, McGovern had often shared glimpses into his family’s activism and unity, including posting photos of himself, Molly, and his wife Lisa attending the 2017 Women’s March, a testament to their shared values and commitment to civic engagement.