NEW BEDFORD, Mass. -- A New Bedford man who lived a modest life even after winning a $5 million lottery jackpot has died in a fire.

John Gonsalves Sr., 85, died Thursday after being overcome by smoke in his home. The fire was determined to be accidental, most likely caused by smoking materials.

Gonsalves won a $5.1 million Megabucks jackpot in 1994, yet he didn't let the fortune change his life.

"He didn't change his life at all," his son, John Jr., told the New Bedford Standard-Times. "I think he went on one vacation. He really didn't want to live high off the hog, so to speak."

In fact, his obituary described him only as a retired longshoreman and made no reference to his lottery win.

His son said his father enjoyed the freedom the money gave him and liked to buy nice clothes and jewelry.

"He liked being what he called 'sharp.' He liked his nice suits and his jewelry," John Jr. said.

His obituary mentions his membership in a local social club and his son said he remained the same humble person.

The elder Gonsalves is still owed more than $1 million of his winnings. His son said he hopes the money doesn't cause friction between his father's survivors, including two ex-wives and five other children.

"I have no problem, but you never know when it comes to money. It's unfortunate. That's a fact. It's unavoidable. That's a fact. It seems to be nature's call when it comes to money. Money can really make a difference in people's lives," he said.