Meet Mary Joan Martelly, the woman who has stood by the side of one of the most iconic figures in boxing history, George Foreman. Popularly Known as Big George, this two-time world heavyweight champion, entrepreneur, and minister has sure made an impact in the sport world as well in the business world. However, Mary Joanhas been one of love and support that might not make it to the spotlight.

From their early days together to navigating the highs and lows of a life in the public eye, Mary Joan has been there for George. She has played a huge role in his career, spiritual life and entrepreneurial journey.

Let’s delve deeper into Mary Joan’s story, as we uncover the woman behind the curtain, the one who has shaped George’s life in profound ways. From her personal experiences to her philanthropic works, Mary Joan’s journey is one to be reckoned with and it wouldn’t go uncelebrated.

Mary Joan Martelly wasn’t aware of George Foreman’s Career Initially

In a 2014 interview with the University of Houston Law Center (UHLC), she revealed an interesting fact about her relationship with her husband early on in their marriage: she was unaware of his legendary boxing career. She explained that she met George Foreman during her babysitting job.

During the interview, Martelly mentioned that she didn’t know much about boxing and had no idea about the extent of George Foreman’s fame when they first met. “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 explained.

This revelation shows that their love goes beyond more than being famous, but rather more interest in Foreman as a person.

She Testify for George Foreman during Custody Disputes

According to her interview with the UHCL, she testified on behalf of Foreman during a custody dispute case. Although she was granted a 6 month visa entry in the US, Foreman promised her ‘You can’t go back,’. She revealed that he was already in love.

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?’ “And I was like, ‘I didn’t know what to say,’ but I went, ‘Okay, yes,’ she said.

“He was a nice guy. I mean he remind me of my dad, you know really kind; a family person. He loves his mom and you know I was like ‘you can’t do better than that,” she further explained.

She is George Foreman’s Fifth Wife

They tied the knot in 1985. And next year will mark their 40 years in marriage. However, it is worth noting that Foreman had four prior marriages before meeting Mary Joan Martelly. Below is a short summary of his past relationships:

  1. First Marriage: Foreman was first married to Sharon Good. They have two sons together but separated later.
  2. Second Marriage: The second spouse of Foreman was Cynthia Clemmons. Together, they have five sons before separating.
  3. Third Marriage: Foreman’s third marriage was to Andrea Seldon. Before their divorce, the two shared one daughter.
  4. Fourth Marriage: Denise Humes was the fourth woman Foreman tied the knot with. The couple welcomed one son together but eventually divorced.

George Foreman Martelly is blessed with 12 children. Of these, he has 5 children with his wife, Mary Joan Martelly. They include 5 sons, all of whom are named George (with varying middle names to distinguish them): George Jr., George III (“Monk”), George IV (“Big Wheel”), George V (“Red”), George VI (“Little Joey”)

7 daughters, including two adopted daughters: Freeda Foreman (deceased), Georgetta Foreman, Natalia Foreman, Leola Foreman, Michi Foreman (adopted), Courtney Isaac Foreman (adopted), Isabella Brenda Lilja Foreman.

George Foreman and Mary Joan Martelly have created a beautiful blended family, combining their respective children from previous marriages.

She has a Humble Beginnings

Born in the Caribbean nation of St. Lucia, which means she is Lucian as well as American by marriage. She did well in school and was an active participant in sports, showcasing her athletic talents at a young age. She recounted during her interview ““I loved sports in school,” “School was really fun interestingly, ’cause you grew up with the same set of children from kindergarten all the way up to high school, so everyone knew everyone.”

Martelly experienced a tragic period when she lost her father at an early age. This vacuum encouraged her and her siblings to be responsible and partake in the needs of the family. Despite all these challenges, she received constant encouragement as well as direction from her mother, which helped her cope with the absence of a father.

She is actively involved in Charity with her Husband

Both Mary Joan Martelly and her husband George Foreman are well-known for their active engagement in charitable works especially on health, education, and the well being of children. They have worked on many projects aimed at helping children, particularly those from disadvantaged homes.

 The campaigns primarily focused on assisting in the understanding of the disease and fighting against stigma associated with it. They always traveled to different places to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, prevention and treatment.

Not only that, Mary Joan and George have also been involved in various educational projects. They have funded scholarships and contributed to programs that provide children with better access to education. The couple’s philanthropic activities have focused on the importance of giving back to the society and assisting children in creating better tomorrows. They were honored at ‘A World of Friends Fighting AIDS’ event for the contribution made during the campaign. Their efforts also earned them recognition in 2007 at the event A World of Friends Fighting AIDS.