Those who have won the lottery jackpot must keep their identity hidden. This ensures that their winnings are not stolen by scammers and long-lost friends. However, some lottery winners have gone overboard with their spending, losing all of their winnings.
Evelyn Basehore won $1.4 million in 1985. She gambled away much of her winnings and eventually lost all of her winnings by 2000. She lived in a trailer park in Brick, New Jersey. In addition to gambling, she gave away much of her money.
Sharon Tirabassi won $10.5 million in the Lotto Super 7 jackpot in 2004. She rode a bus to a part-time job to support her children. She assumed her winnings were bottomless, but spent excessively. Her spending eventually caused her marriage to end in divorce.
Ibi Roncaioli won $5 million in the lottery in 1991. He squandered the winnings by drinking, gambling, and living double lives. He reportedly cheated on his wife with prostitutes. He also bought a twin-engine plane and a house. He was $1 million in debt by 1988. He also blew the money on gifts, cars, and legal entanglements.
Jack Whittaker won a $314 million Powerball jackpot in 2002. He was a West Virginia construction worker. He was a known for his outsized cowboy hats. He also donated money to strangers, diner waitresses, and churches. Despite his outsized personality, he reveled in his ability to give handouts.
William “Bud” Post won $16.2 million in the Pennsylvania Lottery in 1988. He bought houses, boats, and cars. His ex-girlfriend sued him for part of his winnings.