World-renowned as a heavyweight boxing champion, Olympian, and the entrepreneur behind the famed George Foreman Grill, George Foreman was simply “dad” to his children. The celebrated retired boxer passed away in March 2025 at the age of 76, leaving behind 11 of his 12 children. The Foreman family confirmed his passing in a statement released on Instagram.
“Our hearts are profoundly saddened,” the family shared on Foreman’s Instagram account. “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the death of our beloved George Edward Foreman Sr., who peacefully passed away on March 21, 2025, in the company of his loved ones. A devoted clergyman, a dedicated husband, a loving father, and a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, he lived a life characterized by steadfast faith, humility, and purpose. A humanitarian, an Olympian, and a two-time heavyweight world champion, he was highly respected—a positive influence, a man of discipline, strong principles, and a guardian of his legacy, working tirelessly to uphold his good name—for his family. We express our gratitude for the overwhelming support and prayers and respectfully request privacy as we celebrate the remarkable life of a man we were fortunate to call our own.”
Discover more about George Foreman’s children and family below.
George Foreman’s Passing and Family Legacy
Wife of George Foreman
Mary Joan Martelly became Mrs. Foreman in 1985, and their marriage endured until his death in 2025. Prior to Martelly, Foreman was married four times. His first marriage was to Adrienne Calhoun from 1971 to 1974, followed by Cynthia Lewis from 1977 to 1979. He then married Sharon Goodson from 1981 to 1982, and Andrea Skeete, his fourth wife, from 1982 to 1985.
George Foreman’s Children
In total, George Foreman had 12 children. His daughter, Freeda Foreman, tragically died by suicide in 2019.
Meet the Foreman Children
The Sons: Georges By Name
George Foreman named all his sons George, distinguishing them with nicknames: George Jr., George III (“Monk”), George IV (“Big Wheel”), George V (“Red”), and George VI (“Little Joey”).
Foreman previously explained his decision to name all his sons George.
“I named all my sons George Edward Foreman so they would always have a shared identity,” the former boxing icon stated. “I tell them, ‘If one of us prospers, we all prosper together. And if one falters, we all falter together!’”
The Daughters: Natalia, Leola, and More
Foreman’s daughters include Natalia, Leola, Freeda, Michi, Georgetta, Isabella, and Courtney. Freeda, who tragically passed away in 2019, ventured into professional boxing, following in her father’s footsteps.
Isabella and Courtney are Foreman’s adopted daughters.