Richmond County man trusted his gut and won a $1 million top prize

Everett Cooper of Marston had a good feeling about buying a $10 scratch-off and his instinct proved right when he landed a $1 million top prize.

“Something just told me to get that ticket,” he said. “I had that feeling.”

Cooper bought his lucky Cashword King ticket from CAPL Retail on South Main Street in Laurinburg. He said he enjoys playing the crossword style tickets.

“I like to have a coffee, take my time and enjoy myself when I play,” he said.

When Cooper arrived at lottery headquarters Monday, he had a decision to make. He could choose to receive the prize as an annuity of $50,000 over 20 years or a lump sum of $600,000. He chose the lump sum of $600,000 and, after required tax withholdings, took home $432,063.

Cooper plans to use his winnings to help out his family and his church.

The Cashword King game debuted in August with five top prizes of $1 million. One $1 million prize remains to be claimed.