Kentucky Duo Wins Record $167.3M Powerball Jackpot

A mother and son from Georgetown, Kentucky, have become the center of state lottery history after claiming a record-breaking $167.3 million Powerball jackpot. Linda Grizzle and Shannon Farthing purchased the winning ticket at Clark’s Pump N Shop, a small gas station in their hometown. Their prize marks the most significant Powerball win ever recorded in Kentucky, surpassing a previous state record of $128.6 million set in 2009, also by residents of Georgetown.

The winning numbers were drawn on Saturday, April 26. Two days later, the pair presented their ticket at the Kentucky Lottery headquarters in Louisville. Their win comes with approximately 1 in 292.2 million odds, making the outcome extraordinary. The state has seen major lottery wins, but none this large, and none with the same combination of family involvement and local pride.

A Milestone Win, Just Before Mother's Day

This unexpected Mother's Day big win adds a sentimental touch to the story, especially given the pair’s tradition of buying tickets together. Like many before it, this particular ticket was purchased without elaborate planning.

Now that the numbers have aligned, the focus has turned from celebration to decision-making. The Powerball prize structure offers two options: the full $167.3 million spread out over 30 annual payments, or a one-time lump sum of approximately $77.3 million. Grizzle and Farthing are weighing both options carefully with the guidance of financial advisors.

Tax Considerations and Financial Strategy

While the full amount is eye-catching, taxes will reduce the final payout. Kentucky’s state income tax rate of 4.5%, combined with federal taxes reaching up to 37%, means the winners must consider long-term planning to preserve their windfall. The decision between a steady income over three decades or immediate access to a reduced sum will be central to how the funds are managed.

Many winners in similar positions opt for the lump sum, attracted by its flexibility. However, without precise budgeting, that flexibility can lead to missteps. Some previous jackpot winners have seen their fortunes vanish within a few years due to poor planning or over-generosity. Grizzle and Farthing have already begun working with professionals to ensure they avoid the same fate.

Initial reports suggest that their first move will be to eliminate personal debt. Beyond that, they are exploring their financial options cautiously, focusing on long-term stability rather than extravagant purchases.

Georgetown Steps Into the Spotlight

The win has also brought attention to their hometown. Clark’s Pump N Shop, the store that sold the winning ticket, has quickly become a local landmark. It earned a $23,000 commission from the Kentucky Lottery for selling the winning ticket, a significant bonus for a small business. In the days following the announcement, foot traffic to the store increased, with many residents stopping in to try their luck or snap a photo.

The story has energized the Georgetown community. While the winners remain grounded, there’s hope that some prize money will be reinvested locally. Significant lottery wins often have ripple effects in small towns, whether through donations, business investments, or quiet acts of generosity. Business owners, neighbors, and local officials are curious to see how this story unfolds.

Planning for the Future

The claim process itself was straightforward. The winning ticket was validated, and the required paperwork was submitted. Now, Grizzle and Farthing are making the kinds of decisions most people never imagine facing. The pair must consider budgeting, investing, tax planning, and possibly charitable giving.

While they’ve not made their complete plans public, they take a practical approach. They have avoided the media spotlight and are considering how their new wealth will impact their daily lives. For some, that means retiring early or traveling. For others, it might mean starting a business or supporting causes they care about.

The Powerball win comes with both opportunity and responsibility. With access to such a large sum, even modest financial moves can have a lasting impact.

A Record That Will Be Remembered

This win is more than just a payday for two people; it’s now a part of Kentucky’s lottery history. Georgetown has already claimed the top spot twice, and this latest victory further cements the town’s unusual connection to major Powerball wins. It’s a reminder that life-changing luck can strike anywhere, even in small-town gas stations.

For others inspired by the story, options to take part in major lottery draws, like Powerball, are available through various licensed platforms, including LottoGo, which allow users to get involved from anywhere