Kari Hillsman is often recognized for her past relationship with former NBA star and actor Rick Fox, but her journey is filled with personal resilience, family values, and a fulfilling professional life. Now 53 years old, Kari has chosen a path far removed from Hollywood, building a grounded life rooted in care, strength, and growth.
Early Life and Family Background
Born on January 16, 1971, in Massachusetts, Kari Jane Hillsman was raised in a close and culturally rich environment. Her father, Augustus AC Hillsman Jr., was a dedicated army officer, while her mother, Mary Hillsman, served at the Massachusetts Mental Health Center. This upbringing in a biracial household helped Kari embrace a strong sense of identity and purpose.
Kari has a close bond with her sister, Tara Hillsman Townsend, and often reflects on the influence of family in shaping her core values. The Hillsmans instilled in their children the importance of discipline, empathy, and determination. These lessons stayed with Kari as she matured and began to pursue her own path.
Educational Foundation and Early Ambitions
Kari graduated from Andover High School and later attended the University of Massachusetts Boston, where she focused on nursing. Her educational choices reflected her early desire to help others, a value inspired by her mother’s healthcare career. While she later moved into real estate management, her initial studies in nursing gave her a deep understanding of care and responsibility.
Relationship with Rick Fox and Co-Parenting Journey
Kari Hillsman first met Rick Fox during their college years, just as he was preparing to enter the professional basketball world. When Rick was drafted by the Boston Celtics in 1991, Kari was by his side through the highs and lows that came with his career.
Their relationship led to the birth of their son, Kyle Fox, in 1993. While Kari and Rick eventually parted ways in the late 1990s, they remained committed co-parents. Rick’s move to the Los Angeles Lakers in 1997 and the demands of his NBA career created distance between them, but both parents made Kyle’s well-being the top priority.
Following their split, Kari raised Kyle in Massachusetts, away from the public eye. She provided a stable and nurturing home while Rick, from the West Coast, continued to stay active in Kyle’s life. Despite their separation, Kari and Rick maintained a respectful dynamic, centered around raising their son with love and guidance.
Kyle Fox: Bridging Generations Through Esports
Kyle Fox has since grown into a talented individual with interests in both sports and technology. He played an instrumental role in introducing his father to esports, eventually becoming a community manager for Echo Fox, Rick’s former esports organization.
Their mutual love for gaming created a strong bond between father and son, and Rick has often credited Kyle for his introduction into the esports world. Kari, on her part, continued to support Kyle’s ambitions, helping him navigate his path while staying grounded.
Marriage to Henry Francillon and New Chapter
In December 2003, Kari Hillsman married Henry Francillon, a man passionate about soccer and golf. Their life together in Medford, Massachusetts, has been full of love, sports, and shared goals. Kari and Henry welcomed two children: Kayla Augustine Francillon in 2005 and Kaden Thierry Francillon in 2006.
Kayla, now 19, has been an active soccer player at Malden Catholic High School, showing leadership and discipline on the field. Kaden, aged 18, trains with Juventus Academy Boston and shares the same drive as his sister and parents. The Francillon family enjoys spending time outdoors, attending sports events, and having simple weekend gatherings that keep them close.
Career in Real Estate Management
Kari’s professional journey took a significant turn when she transitioned from healthcare to real estate management. Since March 2014, she has been working as a certified residential manager with the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM). Her job involves overseeing residential properties, ensuring that tenants receive quality service, and maintaining well-managed communities.
Her skills in organization, communication, and empathy have made her a respected figure in her field. Kari’s background in nursing has also enhanced her ability to handle the human side of property management. Her career move shows how she has reinvented herself while staying true to her caring nature.
Current Life and Net Worth
Today, Kari Hillsman lives a content life surrounded by her husband and children. She has kept her life private, focusing on her work and family. Though she avoids the media spotlight, her impact is felt in her family’s success and stability.
While Kari has not publicly disclosed her net worth, estimates suggest it could be in the range of $500,000 to $700,000, largely from her long-standing role in real estate management. This reflects her steady career, personal investments, and years of hard work outside of the entertainment world.
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