Molly McGovern, 23, daughter of Massachusetts Rep. James McGovern, passed away during a vacation in Italy. She became ill after dinner with friends and died suddenly. Diagnosed with a rare cancer shortly after turning 18, Molly lived her life to the fullest.

Her mother, Lisa, described her final years as filled with “little miracles,” saying, “Who would have thought the last five years would be the best?” At her funeral on May 3 in Worcester, her father remembered Molly as joyful, witty, and compassionate. “She lit up every room,” he said.

Molly was studying political science and international affairs at Northeastern University and had recently completed a semester in Australia. Her brother Patrick shared their close bond, saying, “Molly will always be the soul of our family.”

Rep. McGovern added, “She made everyone feel special… always standing up for the underdog.” Molly passed away on April 23. Her memory lives on in the many lives she touched.