Kari Hillsman may be best known in the public eye as the former partner of NBA star Rick Fox, but her life story goes far beyond the headlines. From raising a family in Massachusetts to building a stable career in real estate management, Kari’s journey reflects resilience, warmth, and a life lived with intention.
Early Life and Upbringing in Massachusetts
Born on January 16, 1971, in Massachusetts, Kari Hillsman grew up in a nurturing and disciplined environment. As of 2024, she is 53 years old. Her father, Augustus AC Hillsman Jr., served as an army officer, while her mother, Mary Hillsman, worked at the Massachusetts Mental Health Center. Their careers shaped Kari’s values from a young age—her father’s service taught her structure and dedication, while her mother’s healthcare work planted the early seeds of compassion.
Kari was raised alongside her sister, Tara Hillsman Townsend, in a racially diverse family, as they share African-American and white heritage. Her mixed background helped her understand the importance of identity and inclusion in everyday life.
She attended Andover High School and later enrolled at the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she pursued studies in nursing. Her academic and personal life during those years set the tone for a future focused on service and family.
Relationship with Rick Fox and Early Motherhood
Kari met Rick Fox during his early basketball career. When Rick was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1991, Kari stood by his side as his college sweetheart. In 1993, they welcomed a son, Kyle Fox. At that time, Rick’s basketball career was beginning to blossom, and Kari found herself balancing motherhood while Rick navigated the demands of professional sports.
Though they eventually separated in the late 1990s, Kari and Rick maintained a healthy co-parenting relationship. Kari focused on raising Kyle on the East Coast, while Rick continued his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers on the West Coast. Despite the distance, they both worked hard to give Kyle a stable, loving foundation.
Kyle Fox: Bridging the Gap Between Two Worlds
Kyle Fox grew up surrounded by love from both parents. Kari’s nurturing home in Massachusetts gave him structure and consistency, while Rick’s world offered exposure to sports, travel, and later, technology and gaming.
Kyle developed an early interest in both sports and the gaming industry. He eventually took a role as a community manager for Echo Fox, an esports organization founded by Rick Fox. Their shared love of gaming helped Kyle and Rick reconnect in new ways, proving that family bonds can evolve even after romantic partnerships end.
New Beginnings with Henry Francillon
In 2003, Kari Hillsman began a new chapter in life when she married Henry Francillon. Henry, known for his love of soccer and golf, brought joy and a renewed sense of stability into Kari’s life. Together, they raised two more children, Kayla Augustine Francillon and Kaden Thierry Francillon.
Their daughter Kayla, born in 2005, has excelled in soccer and attends Malden Catholic High School. Kaden, born in 2006, has trained with the Juventus Academy Boston, continuing the family’s athletic legacy. The Francillon household is known for its strong family bonds and emphasis on education, sports, and shared time together.
Career Path: From Nursing Aspirations to Property Management
While Kari began her career path with a focus on nursing, her professional journey took a new direction in real estate. In March 2014, she became a certified residential manager with the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM). In this role, she oversees property operations and helps create safe, well-managed living spaces for residents.
Her experience in both healthcare and management contributes to her professional success. Kari is known for being organized, empathetic, and dedicated to the people she serves. This career shift allowed her to build a stable income while balancing family responsibilities.
Relationship with Rick Fox Today
Though their romantic relationship ended decades ago, Kari and Rick maintain mutual respect and continue to support their son. Rick, now an actor, businessman, and advocate for clean tech and mental health, credits Kyle for introducing him to the esports world. Their healthy co-parenting relationship reflects emotional maturity and long-term collaboration.
They’ve shown how families can thrive even after separation, by putting their child’s needs first. Their story is not one of bitterness, but of collaboration and commitment to raising a confident, successful young man.
Net Worth and Personal Life
Kari Hillsman has built her own financial stability with an estimated net worth of $1 million. Her income stems primarily from her career in property management. While Rick Fox’s net worth is reported around $20 million, Kari’s success is a reflection of steady work and grounded choices. She and Henry live a modest but fulfilling life in Medford, Massachusetts, surrounded by their children and focused on health, happiness, and family values.
Final Thoughts
Kari Hillsman’s story proves that a person’s identity should never be defined solely by a public relationship. While many know her as Rick Fox’s former partner, her life shows a deeper narrative—one of personal strength, commitment to family, and quiet success in her own right.
