James Keown, a beloved school bus driver for Jefferson County Public Schools in Kentucky, has recently made headlines by striking it big in the Powerball lottery. Kentucky Lottery officials confirmed that Keown won an impressive $100,000 by matching four white ball numbers and the Powerball in the August 19th drawing. However, this jackpot isn’t the only thing that has changed for Keown; he’s also embarking on a well-deserved retirement after dedicating 11 years to his profession.
A Fortunate Call to His Boss: In a surprising turn of events, Keown made a phone call to his boss on a Sunday to deliver the news, saying, “I hit the lottery, and I’m not coming back.” He further revealed, “I loved my job, but I’d been contemplating retirement for a while.”
The Winning Ticket: Keown’s winning Powerball ticket was purchased from Circle K on Galene Drive in Louisville. Upon discovering his win, he couldn’t believe his luck, stating, “I looked at it four times… that number’s got to change, but it didn’t. I thought I better see what I won. The first time, I saw I won $50,000, and then I thought, wait a minute, I play the multiplier all the time, so I went back, and the multiplier was 2.
Generosity and Personal Plans: Keown and his equally astonished wife, Monta, have plans to use their winnings to support local cat rescue shelters and acquire lakefront property. Additionally, the couple has wisely chosen to clear their outstanding bills with their newfound fortune.
A Farewell to a Beloved Driver: Keown’s departure from his position left his boss feeling melancholic, but understanding of Keown’s decision. He was known as a cherished bus driver who took his responsibilities seriously and held a deep affection for the children he transported daily. Keown’s retirement signifies a loss for the school district, but with his winnings, he can now focus on his hobbies and interests.
A Remarkable Win Against the Odds: The odds of winning the initial $50,000 are 1 in 913,129.18, making Keown’s victory all the more extraordinary. While the school district will miss a dedicated employee, Keown’s triumph serves as a reminder that sometimes, even the most unexpected events can occur.
Conclusion: James Keown’s Powerball win not only changes his life but also leaves a lasting impact on the school district he served. His retirement and generous plans showcase the heartwarming possibilities that can emerge from such remarkable fortunes.
