Associated Press
Memorial Service for George Foreman
HOUSTON (AP) — A memorial service was held on Monday in Houston to honor George Foreman. The occasion celebrated his outstanding boxing career, along with his deep affection for God, family, horses, cheeseburgers, and his commitment to helping others.
Celebrating a Life of Love
“He preached love all the time. That’s what life is all about. George was genuine because he lived and believed in what he preached,” shared James Douglas, a close friend and former president of Texas Southern University in Houston.
Stories of a Champion
Over the course of a nearly hour-and-a-half service, family and friends of Foreman reminisced about the two-time heavyweight champion, who was also an ordained pastor and a successful businessman recognized for the George Foreman Grill. Remarkably, Foreman posthumously addressed attendees at the Wortham Theater Center using previously recorded audio messages.
Messages of Resilience
“Winning and losing don’t guarantee happiness. But looking someone in the eye and saying, ‘I did my best,’ can,” Foreman’s recorded voice stated during the memorial.
Faith and Family Remains Central
Attendees, including George Foreman IV, one of his five sons, emphasized the significance of faith in Foreman’s life and how it inspired him to assist those in need. “I remember my father singing a song from my grandmother during a difficult time. Now I share it with you all,” George Foreman IV mentioned, with his brothers by his side.
A Legacy of Kindness
Foreman, who had 12 children, leaving behind five sons all named George Edward Foreman, was deeply cherished by his family. George Foreman IV, also a pastor, conveyed, “Rest well, Dad. We will always carry your love in our hearts.”
Career Highlights and Impact
Former professional boxer Michael Moorer, who faced Foreman in the ring, reflected on their journey from competitors to respectful friends for over three decades. Other speakers recalled Foreman’s philanthropic efforts, including funding a food bank for AIDS patients and donating $1.7 million for cancer treatment. Foreman passed away on March 21 at the age of 76, with his family noting he “peacefully departed surrounded by loved ones.”
Born in Marshall, Texas, and raised in one of Houston’s historic neighborhoods, Foreman began his boxing career by winning an Olympic gold medal in 1968 and turned professional the following year. He gained fame as the heavyweight champion after defeating Joe Frazier in 1973 and later reclaiming the title in 1994 following a 10-year hiatus from boxing. Following his retirement in 1997, he became a successful businessman, particularly known for the widely popular George Foreman Grill.
