New Jersey couple win $1million lottery jackpot

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Rande and Jackie, only identified by first names, won Mega Millions in March
On Tuesday, the Long Branch couple claimed their $1 million prize in New Jersey
Couple have cared for their daughter, Michelle's three children since she died
Michelle tragically died in 2009 after losing her battle against Lupus
Through tears, Jackie said: 'This will be beginning of good fortune to our family'

Published: 13:40 EDT, 11 July 2017 | Updated: 18:17 EDT, 11 July 2017

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A New Jersey couple, who have been raising their three grandchildren since their daughter's tragic death, won a $1 million lottery jackpot.

Rande and Jackie, only identified by their first names, accepted the second-tier prize from the March 31 Mega Millions drawing on Tuesday, the New Jersey Lottery announced on Tuesday.

The Long Branch couple, who have been married for 17 years, have been caring for their daughter, Michelle's three children since she lost her battle against Lupus in 2009. Their daughter died when she was just 25 years old.

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New Jersey couple, Rande and Jackie (pictured), who have been raising their three grandchildren, since their daughter's tragic death in 2009, claimed their $1 million lottery jackpot on Tuesday

Jackie's eyes were filled with tears as she received her check.

'This will be the beginning of good fortune to our family,' she told lottery officials.

Rande and Jackie bought the ticket at Long Branch Convenience on Broadway and it matched all five of the white balls drawn.

The couple got their friend Debbie to drive them to Lottery Headquarters. She said: 'They are the most deserving people in New Jersey.'

The couple, who have been married for 17 years, have been caring for their daughter, Michelle's (left and right) three children since she lost her battle against Lupus in 2009

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

Jackie and Rande, who is Michelle's stepfather, said they will put the money towards their bills first.

But most importantly they want to use the rest to secure their grandchildren's future.

Rande told lottery officials: 'I am just very grateful. This will help our lives out a lot.'

The winning numbers for the March 31 drawing were 17-24-27-32-58.