Mary Joan Martelly: A Life of Philanthropy and Family
Mary Joan Martelly is best known as the wife of former professional boxer and Olympic gold medalist George Foreman. Beyond her association with the boxing legend, Mary has carved out a significant role in her own right, particularly in the areas of philanthropy and family life. This article delves into her background, her life with George Foreman, her philanthropic efforts, and her overall impact.

Early Life and Background
Mary Joanwas born in Mon Repo, Saint Lucia, an island nation in the Caribbean. She grew up in a large family with six sisters and two brothers. Her early life was marked by financial struggles, especially after the death of her father, which left the family in a precarious situation. Mary and her siblings took on various jobs to support the family, including working in a restaurant and a clothing factory. Her journey eventually led her to the United States, where she worked as a nanny.
Meeting and Marrying George Foreman

Mary met George Foreman in the early 1980s during a challenging period in George’s life. He was embroiled in a custody battle with his fourth wife, Andrea Skeete, and Mary came to testify in the case. This encounter sparked a relationship that led to their marriage on March 27, 1985. The couple has five children together: Leola, Natalie, George Foreman IV, George Foreman V, and George Foreman VI. George also has five children from previous marriages and two adopted daughters, creating a large, blended family.
Life with George Foreman

Mary Joan has been a pillar of support for George Foreman throughout their marriage. When George decided to return to boxing in his late 30s, Mary stood by him, offering unwavering support during his comeback. This period culminated in one of the most remarkable moments in boxing history when George regained the heavyweight title at the age of 45, becoming the oldest heavyweight champion in history. Despite the public nature of their life, Mary has consistently maintained a preference for privacy, focusing on her family and philanthropic efforts.
Philanthropic Efforts
One of Mary Joan most significant contributions has been her philanthropic work, particularly in the area of AIDS awareness. She and George have been actively involved in campaigns aimed at preventing pediatric AIDS. Their efforts have been recognized both in the United States and in Mary’s native Saint Lucia. In Houston and Saint Lucia, they have worked tirelessly to spread awareness and support for the prevention of AIDS in children. Their dedication to this cause was honored at an event called “A World of Friends Fighting AIDS” in 2007.
In addition to her work with AIDS awareness, Mary supports various educational initiatives. She has been involved in efforts to improve educational opportunities for underprivileged children in Saint Lucia, recognizing the importance of education in breaking the cycle of poverty.
Maintaining Privacy

Despite her husband’s fame, Mary Joan Martelly has managed to keep a relatively low profile. Her brief appearance on the reality show “Family Foreman” in 2008 was a rare exception. The show, which aired on TV Land, chronicled George Foreman’s life as a boxer and a father. However, Mary has largely stayed out of the media spotlight, focusing instead on her family and charitable work.
Family Life

Mary’s role as a mother and stepmother is central to her identity. Together with George, she has raised a large, blended family with ten children. This includes five children from George’s previous marriages and two adopted daughters. The family resides in Houston, Texas, where they have built a stable and loving home environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Mary Joan Martelly life is a testament to the power of quiet strength and dedication. While she may not seek the limelight, her contributions to her family and society speak volumes about her character and commitment to making a difference. Through her support of George Foreman and her tireless philanthropic efforts, Mary continues to impact lives positively, demonstrating that true influence often comes from behind the scenes.