Long Branch Family Raising Grandchildren After Daughter's Death Hit It Big With Winning Lottery Ticket

LONG BRANCH, NJ - A Long Branch couple made the right decision recently when they plunked down their money and bought a Mega Millions lottery ticket at the Long Branch Convenience Store on Broadway.

They won the March 31 Mega Millions second-tier prize of $1 million, said Judith L. Drucker, spokeswoman for the New Jersey Lottery Commission.

The couple, identified as only Jackie and Rande, have faced many challenges during their 17 years of marriage. The worst time came when their daughter died of lupus and left them with three young grandchildren to raise.

Their ticket matched all five of the white balls drawn.

Their friend Debbie, who drove them to lottery headquarters described the couple as "the most deserving people in New Jersey."

"They have helped so many other people in their times of need and now it is their turn to receive this very necessary blessing," their friend said.

The couple will use the money for immediate bills first and use the rest to raise their grandchildren.

"I am just very grateful, Rande said. "This will help our lives out a lot."

"This will be the beginning of good fortune to our family," Jackie said.

Image: New Jersey Lottery Commission