Mary Joan Martelly is more than George Foreman’s wife. She’s quietly kept their family steady and backed George at every turn.
George Foreman and Mary Joan Martelly have been married for nearly 40 years. 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 has supported her family and husband over the years.
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. With the University of Houston Law Center 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, 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.
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, Martelly is also a stepmother to 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 Part in His Comeback
When George Foreman decided to return to boxing in the late 1980s, many were skeptical. However, Mary 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.
Tough Times, Strong Heart
Though Mary Joan Martelly stays out of the spotlight, she has faced her health struggles.
Their daughter Leola died in 2009—a loss they still feel. Coping with such a tragedy was undoubtedly difficult, but Mary remained a pillar of strength for her family during this challenging time.
A Quiet Life
Mary keeps her life private, even with George in the spotlight. She rarely makes public appearances and chooses to stay behind the scenes, focusing on her family and personal well-being.
The couple currently resides 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 focus 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.
Martelly 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.’”
Conclusion
Mary Joan Martelly may not be as famous as her 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. Their nearly 40-year marriage stands as a testament to their strong bond.
Though George Foreman had been married four times before, his union with Mary Joan Martelly became the one that truly lasted. Today, they continue to enjoy a private and fulfilling life together, filled with love, family, and shared memories. Their legacy extends beyond boxing and business, reflecting their commitment to family and giving back to society.
