ive months after the passing of boxing icon George Foreman on March 21, 2025, at the age of 76, the world continues to celebrate his extraordinary legacy. While his achievements in the ring and as an entrepreneur are well-documented, one of the most enduring aspects of his life was his nearly 40-year marriage to Mary Joan Martelly, his devoted spouse. This news feature explores the heartfelt love story between George Foreman and Mary Joan Martelly, shedding light on how they met, their long-lasting marriage, and her pivotal role in his multifaceted career.020
George Foreman’s Early Personal Life: A Path to Stability
Born on January 10, 1949, in Marshall, Texas, George Edward Foreman overcame a troubled youth in Houston’s Fifth Ward to become a two-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist. His professional journey included iconic bouts like the Rumble in the Jungle against Muhammad Ali in 1974 and a remarkable comeback to reclaim the title in 1994 at age 45. Beyond boxing, Foreman built a business empire with the George Foreman Grill, authored books, and served as a pastor.3750
However, Foreman’s personal life before meeting Martelly was marked by instability. He had four previous marriages: to Adrienne Calhoun (1971-1974), Cynthia Lewis (1977-1979), Sharon Goodson (1981-1982), and Andrea Skeete (1982-1985). These relationships resulted in several children but ended in divorce. It was during a custody battle from one of these earlier marriages that Foreman met Martelly, a turning point that brought lasting companionship and family harmony.812
The Serendipitous Meeting: From Testimony to True Love
Mary Joan Martelly was born in 1963 in Mon Repos, a village on the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, the third of eight children in a close-knit family. After her father’s passing at age 44, she developed a resilient spirit rooted in her cultural heritage. Martelly moved to the United States, where her path crossed with Foreman’s in the early 1980s during a custody dispute in Houston, Texas.2544
Martelly arrived on a six-month temporary visa to testify on Foreman’s behalf in the hearing. Her support during this challenging time sparked a connection. As she shared in a 2014 interview with the University of Houston Law Center, “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.”3942
“By the time my six months came, he was in love. He was like, ‘You can’t go back,’” Martelly recalled. During a movie date, Foreman proposed with a modest ring, and she accepted.39
They dated for about a year before marrying on March 27, 1985, in a private ceremony. This union, Foreman’s fifth, proved to be his most enduring, lasting until his death.120
Building a Blended Family: Love, Legacy, and All Named George
Family was central to Foreman and Martelly’s life. Together, they had five biological children: daughters Natalia and Leola, and sons George IV (“Big Wheel”), George V (“Red”), and George VI (“Little Joey”). Foreman famously named all five of his sons George Edward Foreman, explaining on his website, “I named all my sons George Edward Foreman so they would always have something in common. I say to them, ‘If one of us goes up, then we all go up together, and if one goes down, we all go down together!'”400
The couple also adopted two daughters: Isabella Brandie Lilja in 2009 and Courtney Isaac in 2012. Martelly embraced Foreman’s seven children from previous marriages—Michi, Freeda (who tragically passed in 2019), Georgetta, George Jr., and George III—treating them as her own. They raised their large family on a ranch in Huffman, Texas, prioritizing privacy and values like discipline and compassion.4044
Martelly emphasized her role as a hands-on mother: “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 from A to Z.”39
Their family life was briefly showcased in the 2008 TV Land reality series “Family Foreman,” offering glimpses into Foreman’s balancing act as a father, boxer, and businessman.39
Martelly’s Influence on Foreman’s Career and Comeback
Martelly was more than a spouse; she was a cornerstone of Foreman’s success. During his legendary comeback in the late 1980s, after a 10-year retirement for ministry, she provided unwavering support. Foreman credited her with grounding him, especially when he considered another return at age 55. Her six words—”You’ve been there, done that”—convinced him otherwise.3349
In business, Martelly’s focus on family health aligned with the George Foreman Grill, which sold over 100 million units. As a homemaker passionate about wellness, she influenced his shift toward promoting healthy living.41
Foreman’s spiritual life also benefited from their partnership. As pastor of the Church of the Lord Jesus Christ in Houston since 1980, he often highlighted Martelly’s role in his faith journey, which began with a profound religious experience in 1977.40
A Shared Commitment to Philanthropy
The couple’s love extended to community service. They founded the George Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston, offering programs for underprivileged youth in education, recreation, and personal development.49
One of their most impactful causes was pediatric AIDS awareness. They campaigned in Houston and St. Lucia, traveling to Africa to advocate for affected children. In 2007, they were honored at the “A World of Friends Fighting AIDS” event for their efforts.3947
- Youth Programs: Focused on mentoring and health initiatives.
- Global Outreach: Supporting medical research and awareness for children’s health.
Overcoming Challenges: Faith and Resilience
Their marriage faced trials, including public scrutiny, financial pressures during Foreman’s early retirement, and raising a blended family. Shared faith and open communication were key to their endurance. Martelly’s Caribbean roots brought cultural richness and strength to their bond.4145
In his final years, as health declined, Martelly remained by his side. Following his death, she shared in a family statement: “A devout preacher, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a proud grand and great grandfather, he lived a life marked by unwavering faith, humility, and purpose.”51
A Timeless Legacy of Love and Partnership
George Foreman and Mary Joan Martelly’s story is one of redemption, partnership, and impact. From a chance meeting in a courtroom to building a family and legacy together, their journey inspires. As Martelly continues to honor his memory, their love story reminds us that true partnership can thrive beyond the spotlight.1146
On this day, August 21, 2025, as tributes continue, Martelly’s role as George Foreman’s spouse stands as a pillar of his extraordinary life.
You may also read: How Starbucks Teamworks Enhances Employee Collaboration and Scheduling
