The Untold Story Of Mary Joan Martelly: 5 Fascinating Facts About George Foreman's Enduring Wife

As of December 2025, Mary Joan Martelly continues to stand as a pillar of strength and a figure of quiet influence beside her legendary husband, former professional boxer and successful entrepreneur George Foreman. While the world knows "Big George" for his Olympic gold, two-time heavyweight championship, and the famous George Foreman Grill, Mary Joan has carved out a meaningful and impactful life of her own, largely out of the public spotlight. Her commitment to family, coupled with a deep dedication to philanthropy, makes her story one of resilience and grace. The public perception of Mary Joan Martelly is often limited to her status as George Foreman’s fifth wife, a marriage that has remarkably endured for nearly four decades. However, a deeper look reveals a businesswoman, a devoted mother, and a passionate advocate for critical health and education issues. This article delves into the most recent and lesser-known facts about Mary Joan Martelly, separating the fresh, unique details from the common online confusion.

Mary Joan Martelly: Biography and Profile

Mary Joan Martelly’s life is a testament to quiet strength and dedication, rooted in her Caribbean heritage and blossoming into significant philanthropic work in the United States. She is best known for her long-standing marriage to one of boxing's most iconic figures, George Foreman.

• Full Name: Mary Joan Foreman (née Martelly)
• Date of Birth: February 10, 1963 (Some sources cite May 17, 1963)
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 62 years old
• Place of Birth: Mon Repos, St Lucia
• Nationality: Saint Lucian, American
• Ethnicity: Brown
• Current Residence: Houston, Texas, USA
• Spouse: George Foreman (Married 1985)
• Children: Mother to some of George Foreman’s 12 children (including five sons all named George Edward Foreman)
• Known For: Wife of George Foreman, Philanthropist, AIDS Awareness Advocate
• Estimated Net Worth: Between $500,000 and $2 million (attributed to her work, separate from her husband's substantial wealth).
• Early Career: Worked as a nanny after moving to the United States.

The Truth Behind the "First Lady of Haiti" Confusion

One of the most unique and confusing facts appearing in some online biographies is the claim that Mary Joan Martelly served as the "First Lady of Haiti." This is a significant and verifiable factual error that stems from a common name mix-up.

The actual former First Lady of Haiti is Sophia Martelly, the wife of former Haitian President Michel Martelly. Mary Joan Martelly’s maiden name is Martelly, and she was born in St Lucia, an entirely different Caribbean nation. The shared surname has led to an incorrect merging of biographies across various online platforms.

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While Mary Joan Martelly has dedicated her life to charitable causes, particularly in the realm of health awareness, her professional and public life has always been rooted in the United States and her home country of St Lucia, not the Haitian political landscape. Addressing this confusion is vital for a fresh and accurate understanding of her life and career.

Her Deep Commitment to AIDS Awareness and Philanthropy

Beyond her role as a devoted wife and mother, Mary Joan Martelly is a dedicated philanthropist whose work has made a tangible impact on public health. Her primary focus is on AIDS awareness advocacy and promoting education for children.

Her involvement is not merely passive; she and George Foreman have actively supported initiatives aimed at combating pediatric AIDS. Her work with the Pediatric AIDS Foundation is particularly noteworthy, highlighting a long-term commitment to a cause that affects vulnerable populations globally.

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This dedication to social causes is a defining feature of her public life. By focusing on health and educational opportunities, Mary Joan has leveraged her platform to bring attention and resources to those in need, showcasing a selfless spirit that stands in contrast to the high-profile celebrity associated with her husband’s fame.

A Matriarchal Force in the Foreman Family

Mary Joan Martelly's role as the matriarch of the Foreman family is arguably her most significant contribution. Her marriage to George Foreman in 1985 marked his fifth and, to date, most enduring union, lasting nearly 40 years.

The couple manages a large, blended family. George Foreman is famously the father of 12 children—five sons and seven daughters—from his various relationships. The most famous detail is that all five of his sons are named George Edward Foreman (often referred to by their suffixes, like George III, George IV, etc.), a tradition he started to give them a constant name in their lives.

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Mary Joan is credited with providing a stable and loving home environment for this large family. Her decision to focus on being a "stay-at-home mom" after her early career as a nanny highlights her commitment to raising and caring for their children.

The longevity of their marriage is a testament to the strong partnership they share, a rarity in the world of high-profile athletes. She has been a constant source of support for George Foreman, not only during his remarkable second boxing career but also throughout his highly successful business ventures, including the George Foreman Grill empire.

Early Life and Career Prior to Fame

Mary Joan Martelly’s journey began far from the bright lights of American celebrity. Born in Mon Repos, St Lucia, she carried a strong work ethic when she moved to the United States.

Before meeting George Foreman, she worked as a nanny, showcasing her nurturing nature and dedication to childcare from an early age. This early career path provided a foundation for her later philanthropic work focused on children's education and health.

While her estimated personal net worth is modest, ranging from $500,000 to $2 million, it is primarily attributed to her independent philanthropic work and business ventures, separate from the massive wealth generated by her husband's career. Her life story is one of a woman who built her own identity and impact, regardless of the fame surrounding her.