NORTHAMPTON — Molly McGovern, the daughter of U.S. Rep. James McGovern and Lisa McGovern and sister to Patrick McGovern, died unexpectedly in Italy while visiting a good friend and his family, according to a statement the congressman’s family issued Thursday morning.

“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,” the statement reads.

Molly McGovern, 23, had just completed a semester abroad in Australia.

“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. She was unbelievably funny, fiercely loyal, and wise beyond her years,” the statement reads. “Molly had a rare gift: She made everyone feel special, because she genuinely believed everyone was special. She treated people with compassion and kindness — always standing up for the underdog, and making fast friends wherever she went.”

“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,” the statement continues. “If you ever met Molly, you carried a piece of her light with you. She had that kind of effect on people.”

Gov. Maura Healey offered condolences, support and love to the McGovern family and their loved ones, from herself and First Lady Joanna Lydgate, during the difficult time.

“I’m heartbroken for the McGovern family over the loss of their beloved Molly,” Healey said. “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.”

Northampton Mayor Gina-Louise Sciarra gave her sympathies on behalf of the city’s residents.

“Molly’s passing is felt deeply throughout our region by all who have worked with Congressman McGovern and come to know his steadfast compassion and commitment to public service,” Sciarra said. “We hold his family in our hearts as they grieve the unimaginable.”

  On the social media platform X, Jim McGovern’s longtime colleague U.S. Rep. Richard Neal called the world  “a poorer place” without Molly McGovern.

“My heart is broken for my dear friend, Jim, his wife, Lisa, and their son Patrick,” Neal wrote. “There is no greater pain than the pain of losing a child, especially one as beloved as Molly. Molly was a McGovern through and through - compassionate, intelligent, and loyal to a fault.”

The McGoverns ended their statement expressing their love and admiration for their daughter and sister.

“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.”