George Foreman, the iconic two-time heavyweight boxing champion and entrepreneur behind the George Foreman Grill, is celebrated worldwide for his remarkable achievements. Yet, behind his towering legacy stands Mary Joan Martelly, George Foreman’s wife, whose love and support have been the cornerstone of his personal and professional triumphs. Their nearly 40-year marriage is a story of serendipity, resilience, and unwavering partnership. This article explores the romantic journey of George Foreman and his wife, Mary Joan Martelly, from their chance meeting in the 1980s to the defining moments that solidified their bond.
A Chance Encounter That Sparked a Lifetime of Love
Mary Joan Martelly, born in 1955 in St. Lucia, grew up in a close-knit Caribbean community where her athletic prowess shone during her school years. Financial challenges halted her educational aspirations, leading her to work as a nanny in the United States. It was during this period, in the early 1980s, that fate intervened. Foreman, then embroiled in a custody battle with his fourth wife, Andrea Skeete, met Mary when she arrived in the U.S. on a temporary visa to testify in the dispute, as reported by CBN.
In a candid 2014 interview with the University of Houston Law Center, Mary revealed she knew little about Foreman’s boxing fame. “I didn’t know anything about George’s career before. I’ve never seen him box,” she admitted. Yet, their connection was immediate, rooted in mutual respect and shared values. Foreman, navigating a turbulent phase of his life, found solace in Mary’s grounded and nurturing demeanor.
“By the time my six months came, he was in love. He said, ‘You can’t go back,’” Mary recalled, describing Foreman’s heartfelt proposal. “We were going to the movies, and he came back with a tiny ring—you could barely see the diamond—and said, ‘Can you marry me?’”
Building a Life Together: The Marriage of George and Mary
After a whirlwind romance, George and Mary exchanged vows on March 27, 1985, marking Foreman’s fifth marriage but his most enduring. Unlike his previous marriages, which were short-lived, this union thrived, lasting until Foreman’s passing on March 21, 2025. The couple settled in Huffman, Texas, where they built a vibrant family life. Together, they raised five children—George IV, George V, George VI, Leola, and Natalie—and adopted two daughters, Isabella Brandie Lilja in 2009 and Courtney Isaac in 2012. Mary also embraced her role as stepmother to Foreman’s children from earlier marriages: Michi, Freeda (who tragically passed in 2019), Georgetta, George Jr., and George III.
Mary’s role extended far beyond the home. During Foreman’s improbable boxing comeback in the late 1980s, she became his rock. At 38, Foreman re-entered the ring, defying critics who doubted his ability to compete. Mary’s unwavering support—both emotionally and logistically—helped him persevere. In 1994, at age 46, Foreman reclaimed the heavyweight title against Michael Moorer, becoming the oldest champion in boxing history, a milestone he attributed partly to Mary’s encouragement.
Philanthropy: A Shared Mission
George and Mary’s partnership extended to their shared passion for philanthropy. They co-founded the Foreman Family AIDS Foundation, focusing on pediatric AIDS awareness and community support. Mary’s dedication to children’s welfare, particularly in her native St. Lucia, earned her recognition alongside Foreman at the 2007 “A World of Friends Fighting AIDS” event. Her efforts included advocating for education and healthcare access, reflecting the couple’s commitment to giving back.
The 2008 TV Land series Family Foreman offered a glimpse into their family dynamics, showcasing Mary’s role as the heart of their household. Despite her preference for privacy, she appeared alongside George and their children, highlighting their unity. “I wanted to be there for my kids, from picking them up at school to every moment,” Mary shared in her University of Houston interview, underscoring her devotion.
Navigating Fame and Fortune Together
Mary’s influence also touched Foreman’s entrepreneurial ventures, notably the George Foreman Grill, which revolutionized home cooking and earned him an estimated $200 million. While George was the face of the brand, Mary’s behind-the-scenes support helped manage the demands of his multifaceted career. Their ability to balance fame, family, and philanthropy set them apart as a power couple.
Foreman often spoke highly of Mary, calling her “Joan” in a heartfelt nod to their intimacy. In a CBN interview, he said, “Mary is a good wife. She’s my anchor.” Her quiet strength complemented his larger-than-life persona, creating a partnership that weathered the highs and lows of public life.
A Lasting Legacy of Love
George Foreman’s passing on March 21, 2025, marked a profound loss, but his love story with Mary Joan Martelly endures as a beacon of devotion. Their nearly 40-year marriage stood the test of time, navigating the challenges of fame, a large blended family, and Foreman’s demanding career. In their final Instagram post, Foreman’s family described him as a “devoted husband” surrounded by loved ones, including Mary, in his last moments.
Mary Joan Martelly’s legacy as George Foreman’s wife is one of resilience, compassion, and quiet strength. From a serendipitous meeting to a lifetime of shared dreams, their love story inspires as a testament to partnership and perseverance. As fans reflect on Foreman’s extraordinary life, Mary remains the unsung hero who stood by his side, shaping his legacy both in and out of the ring.
