Mary Joan Martelly is more than George Foreman’s widow. She’s quietly kept their family steady and backed George at every turn throughout their remarkable journey together.
George Foreman and Mary Joan Martelly were married for nearly 40 years before his passing on March 21, 2025. The couple wed in 1985 after a year of dating, marking Foreman’s fifth marriage and a fresh start for the pair.
Growing Up in Saint Lucia
Mary Joan Martelly was born in Mon Repos, Saint Lucia, a beautiful Caribbean island known for its rich culture and stunning landscapes. She grew up in a close-knit community where strong values and traditions played an essential role in shaping her character. She grew up modestly and learned the value of hard work.
As a child, Mary loved sports. In an interview with the University of Houston, she fondly recalled, “I loved sports in school. The school was really fun, interestingly, ’cause you grew up with the same set of children from kindergarten up to high school, so everyone knew everyone.”
In Saint Lucia, she focused on school and her future. Though specific details about her schooling remain private, her dedication and intelligence have always been evident in how she supported her family and husband over the years. Born on May 17, 1963, this Saint Lucian-American matriarch is 61 years old as of 2024.
How They Met
Mary Joan Martelly met George Foreman in the early 1980s, during a period when Foreman was transitioning from his boxing career to becoming a minister. In her interview with the University of Houston Law Center, this Caribbean native shared that she didn’t know who Foreman was before meeting him.
“I didn’t know anything about George’s career before, I’ve never seen him box before, I didn’t even know him as a boxer’s spouse, but I helped him all through it,” she shared.
After a few years of dating, she came to the U.S. on a six-month visa to support George in a custody case. “By the time my six months came, he was in love. He said, ‘You can’t go back.'”
Foreman later proposed in a simple yet heartfelt way. “We were going to the movies … and he says, ‘I’ll be right back,’ and he came back with a little ring, you could barely see the diamond, and he’s like, ‘Can you marry me?’ ” she recalled. “And I was like, ‘I didn’t know what to say,’ but I went, ‘Okay, yes.'”
The couple tied the knot in March 1985, marking the beginning of a strong and lasting marriage that would span four decades.
Their Big Family
Mary Joan Martelly and George Foreman share seven children: George IV, George V, George VI, Leola, Natalie, Isabella, and Courtney.
In addition to their children together, this devoted stepmother also embraced Foreman’s children from previous relationships—daughters Michi, Freeda (who passed away in 2019), and Georgetta, and sons George Jr. and George III. All of Foreman’s sons share the name George Edward Foreman, a unique tradition that he started to keep the family name alive.
Talking about raising her children, Mary Joan Martelly fondly told the University of Houston, “I had to raise my kids, and I wanted to be there for them, I wanted to be there to pick them up from school, and A to Z.”
Her Role in His Comeback
When George Foreman decided to return to boxing in the late 1980s, many were skeptical. However, this supportive partner stood by his side, providing the encouragement and stability he needed. Her support played a crucial role in his successful comeback, which saw him reclaim the World Heavyweight Champion title at the age of 45.
Mary helped manage aspects of their business ventures, ensuring that George remained focused while also handling family responsibilities. This behind-the-scenes force proved essential to both his athletic and entrepreneurial success.
Tough Times, Strong Heart
Though Mary Joan Martelly stays out of the spotlight, she has faced her health struggles with remarkable resilience.
Their daughter Leola died in 2009—a loss they still feel deeply. Coping with such tragedy was undoubtedly difficult, but this pillar of strength remained steadfast for her family during this challenging time. Her maternal instincts and unwavering support helped the family navigate their grief together.
A Quiet Life
Mary keeps her life private, even with George in the spotlight. She rarely made public appearances and chose to stay behind the scenes, focusing on her family and personal well-being. This private individual preferred the role of family anchor rather than public figure.
The couple resided in Huffman, Texas, on a grand estate that they purchased in the early 2000s. Their dream home, sitting on 45 acres of land, took nearly three years to complete. The property, valued at over $10 million, includes a 45,000-square-foot main house, a guesthouse, and a dedicated gym facility.
They focused on children’s health and education in their charity work. Their efforts include raising awareness for pediatric AIDS prevention and supporting educational programs both in the United States and in Saint Lucia. In 2007, they were honored at an event called A World of Friends Fighting AIDS for their dedication to these causes.
This philanthropist believes in quiet generosity and once said, “Usually we’d do something and we wouldn’t tell anybody. My grandma always said, ‘If you want the blessing, then you don’t let the whole world know.'”
Legacy After Loss
Following George Foreman’s peaceful passing on March 21, 2025, at age 76, Mary Joan Martelly now carries forward their shared legacy as a widow. The Foreman family announced his death, describing him as “a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great-grandfather” who was “surrounded by loved ones.”
Though George Foreman had been married four times before, his union with Mary Joan Martelly became the one that truly lasted. Their nearly four-decade marriage stands as a testament to their strong bond and her unwavering devotion.
Conclusion
Mary Joan Martelly may not be as famous as her late husband, but she is undoubtedly an essential part of his success story. From supporting George Foreman through his boxing career to managing their large family, she has been a source of strength and stability throughout their journey together.
This Saint Lucian matriarch continues to embody the values that made their marriage so enduring. Her legacy extends beyond boxing and business, reflecting their shared commitment to family and giving back to society. As she moves forward without her life partner, her strength and grace remain an inspiration to their children and grandchildren, ensuring that the Foreman family values live on.
Today, Mary Joan Martelly continues to live privately, filled with love, family, and cherished memories of their remarkable life together. Their story remains one of enduring love, resilience, and the power of standing by those you care about most.
