Mary Joan Martelly is best known as the wife of boxing legend George Foreman, but there is much more to her than just being the spouse of a famous athlete. A private yet strong presence in Foreman’s life, she has played a vital role in maintaining their family’s stability and supporting George through various phases of his career. Retired boxing champion George Foreman has been married to his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, for nearly 40 years. The couple wed in 1985 after a year of dating, marking Foreman’s fifth marriage but symbolizing a fresh start for the pair.
Early Life and Background
Birth and Upbringing 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. Her early life was marked by modest beginnings, but she developed a strong sense of determination and appreciation for hard work.
During her youth, Martelly showed a keen interest in 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.”
Education and Early Interests
Growing up in Saint Lucia, Mary valued education and worked hard to build a future for herself. 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.
Meeting George Foreman
First Encounter
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. Interestingly, Martelly revealed in a 2014 interview 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.
Courtship and Marriage
After dating for a few years, Mary Joan Martelly came to the U.S. on a six-month temporary visa to testify on behalf of Foreman during an ongoing custody dispute. “By the time my six months came, he was in love. He was like, ‘You can’t go back,’” she recalled.
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.
Family Life
Children
Mary Joan Martelly and George Foreman share seven children: George IV, George V, George VI, Leola, Natalie, Isabella, and Courtney.
Blended Family Dynamics
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.”
Role in George Foreman’s Career
Support During Boxing Career
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.
Involvement in Business Ventures
Beyond boxing, George Foreman became a successful entrepreneur, most notably with the George Foreman Grill. Mary helped manage aspects of their business ventures, ensuring that George remained focused while also handling family responsibilities.
Personal Challenges and Resilience
Health Challenges
Though Mary Joan Martelly has largely remained out of the spotlight, she has faced her health struggles. However, she has always maintained a strong and positive attitude, ensuring that her family remains her top priority.
Family Tragedies
One of the most heartbreaking moments for Mary and George was the loss of their daughter, Leola Foreman, in 2009. Coping with such a tragedy was undoubtedly difficult, but Mary remained a pillar of strength for her family during this challenging time.
Life Away from the Spotlight
Maintaining Privacy
Despite being married to a public figure, Mary has made a conscious effort to keep her life private. She rarely makes public appearances and chooses to stay behind the scenes, focusing on her family and personal well-being.
They live in Texas
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.
Philanthropic Efforts
Mary Joan Martelly and George Foreman have been heavily involved in charitable work, particularly focusing on children’s health and education. 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.
Want to know more about inspiring figures like Mary Joan Martelly? Stay updated with exclusive stories at MashMagazine.co.uk! 🚀
