83-year-old Toronto woman wins lottery in memory of late husband

An 83-year-old Toronto woman won $100,000 after playing the lottery in memory of her late husband.

Mary Zammit, a retiree from Etobicoke, said she was playing the Instant Crossword Tripler with OLG when she won the prize.

“My husband passed away in September, and these tickets have helped keep my mind off things,” she said. “They’re a nice way to spend my time.”

She said she was at home when she played her ticket.

“That night, I went to the store to pick up fried chicken for dinner, and while I was there, I decided to check my tickets. Suddenly, the lottery terminal went off, and I got scared thinking there was an error,” she said.

“When the store clerk said I won big, I was completely stunned. At first, I was in shock and disbelief. Then my heart started racing and I felt like I was going to pass out!”

Zammit said she first told the good news to her daughter and son-in-law.

“I called my daughter and said, ‘You need to sit down to hear this.’ Then I told her I won the lottery. She was so happy and completely speechless. It was an incredible moment,” she said.

She said she plans to share her winnings with family and donate to charity.

“I want to make sure my loved ones are taken care of, especially around this time of year,” she said with a smile.

“Since my husband passed away, this feels like a blessing sent from him. I wish he were here to enjoy this celebration with me,” she said.

“This win brings a sense of peace during a very difficult time in my life — it gives me something positive to hold onto and look forward to. I feel grateful, emotional, and truly happy.”