Barbara Boothe is a name that rarely makes headlines, yet her influence is profound. Known primarily as the ex-wife of Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, Barbara’s life is a testament to privacy, independence, and purpose. While Larry Ellison became one of the most famous and wealthiest tech entrepreneurs in the world, Barbara chose a path that prioritized family, creativity, and meaningful living.
Her story is not about Silicon Valley boardrooms or media attention; it is about motherhood, personal growth, and cultivating a legacy that transcends wealth. This article explores her journey from a young professional in the tech industry to the matriarch of a thriving family and an accomplished equestrian. Readers will discover how Barbara Boothe shaped her life and the lives of her children, David and Megan Ellison, away from the spotlight.
Quick Bio Information
Full Name: Barbara Boothe
Known For: Ex-Wife Of Larry Ellison
Nationality: American
Ethnicity: Caucasian
Religion: Christian
Education: Stanford University
Occupation (Past): Receptionist At Relational Software Inc.
Years Married To Larry Ellison: 1983–1986
Children: David Ellison, Megan Ellison
Current Residence: Wilsonville, Oregon (2025)
Net Worth (Estimated): Multi-Millions
Horse Farm Owned: Wild Turkey Farm
Remarried: No
Professionally Known For: Mother, Equestrian, Philanthropist
Hobbies: Horse Breeding, Riding, Gardening
Notable Achievements: Building Wild Turkey Farm, Raising Successful Children
Public Appearances: Rare; Mostly Private Life
Early Career: From Receptionist To Silicon Valley
Barbara Boothe’s career began modestly in the offices of Relational Software Inc., the company that would later evolve into Oracle. Starting as a receptionist, she navigated the high-pressure world of early tech startups during a pivotal era for Silicon Valley. Her exposure to the tech industry brought her into contact with Larry Ellison, a visionary entrepreneur with relentless drive.
Her role may have seemed minor, but it positioned her at the crossroads of innovation and opportunity. Barbara’s professionalism and calm demeanor allowed her to build meaningful relationships while observing the rise of one of the world’s most influential companies. This experience, though understated, was crucial in shaping her understanding of leadership, ambition, and balance.
Marriage To Larry Ellison: A Brief But Pivotal Chapter
In 1983, Barbara Boothe married Larry Ellison, and the union marked a transformative period in her life. That same year, she gave birth to their first child, David Ellison, and three years later, welcomed their daughter, Megan Ellison. Despite being married to a man who would soon dominate headlines for his wealth and business acumen, Barbara prioritized family life.
Her marriage, though brief, played a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of Ellisons. She focused on creating a stable, nurturing home while supporting Larry’s ambitions from behind the scenes. The pressures of Silicon Valley, combined with Larry’s growing fame, made the marriage challenging, yet Barbara’s dedication to her children remained unwavering.
Life After Divorce: Choosing Independence
The marriage ended in 1986, shortly after the birth of Megan and the public emergence of Oracle as a tech giant. Rather than seek the limelight or rely solely on financial comfort, Barbara made the deliberate choice to build an independent life. She assumed primary custody of her children and moved away from the fast-paced, high-profile world of Silicon Valley.
Her post-divorce years were marked by intentionality. Barbara focused on raising her children in an environment rooted in discipline, creativity, and values. By stepping away from the public eye, she created a life defined not by wealth or status but by personal fulfillment and family connection.
Wild Turkey Farm: Passion For Equestrian Life
One of Barbara Boothe’s most notable accomplishments is the creation of Wild Turkey Farm, her 200-acre horse ranch in Wilsonville, Oregon. Developed over the early 2000s, the property became a sanctuary where Barbara could combine her love of horses with her dedication to building something enduring.
Wild Turkey Farm is a testament to her vision and discipline. The ranch features five barns, 97 stalls, 33 fenced pastures, and an indoor riding arena, supporting professional horse breeding and training. Over 100 foals have been born on the property, and the farm has gained recognition for its quality and care. The ranch also includes a custom-built 10,000-square-foot home designed with rustic luxury, blending stone, cherry wood, and open spaces for equestrian pursuits.
Raising The Next Generation: David And Megan Ellison
Barbara’s most profound legacy lies in her children. David Ellison went on to found Skydance Media, producing blockbuster films like Top Gun: Maverick and Mission: Impossible – Fallout. Megan Ellison founded Annapurna Pictures, earning multiple Academy Award nominations for films such as Zero Dark Thirty and American Hustle.
Barbara’s parenting style was disciplined yet nurturing. She emphasized responsibility, creativity, and independence, instilling habits that shaped her children’s professional success. David recalls that chores were rewarded with modest allowances, a practice that taught accountability and work ethic, contrasting with the wealth surrounding them.
Life Of Privacy: Staying Out Of The Spotlight
Unlike her high-profile ex-husband, Barbara Boothe has chosen a life of privacy and discretion. She avoids interviews, media events, and social media, allowing her personal and professional accomplishments to remain largely unseen by the public.
Her commitment to privacy is not merely avoidance but a conscious decision to focus on what truly matters: her family, her farm, and her passions. This approach underscores the value of authenticity and personal integrity in an age dominated by constant exposure and public scrutiny.
Misconceptions About Barbara Boothe
Despite her discreet life, Barbara has been subject to misconceptions. Some assume she led a glamorous, media-driven existence or that she relied heavily on Larry Ellison’s wealth. Others believe Larry was the primary caregiver for their children. In reality, Barbara was the primary influence in her children’s upbringing, carefully balancing discipline and support while cultivating their creative potential.
Contrary to rumors, she has not remarried and continues to maintain her private lifestyle, proving that her legacy is defined by substance, not spectacle.
Legacy Beyond Larry Ellison
Barbara Boothe’s legacy extends far beyond her brief marriage to a billionaire. Through her children, she has influenced the entertainment industry and culture, leaving a lasting impact that blends creativity with professionalism.
Additionally, Wild Turkey Farm represents a tangible legacy of her passions, discipline, and care. Her life demonstrates that influence is not solely measured by public recognition but also by the lasting positive effects on family, community, and personal pursuits.
Personal Life And Values
Barbara’s choices reflect a consistent set of values: independence, authenticity, and dedication to family. Her life shows that fulfillment can come from purposeful work, personal passions, and meaningful relationships, rather than public acclaim or material display.
Even in her private life, Barbara remains a role model for those who seek balance between personal ambitions, family responsibilities, and self-fulfillment.
Achievements In Equestrian Life
Barbara Boothe’s contributions to the equestrian world are significant. Wild Turkey Farm is recognized for its excellence in breeding, training, and horse care. Barbara’s dedication transformed her passion into a professional-level endeavor, earning respect in equestrian circles.
Her approach combines rigorous standards, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of animal care, reflecting the same discipline she applied in raising her children and managing her private life.
Influence On Hollywood Success
Barbara’s influence on her children’s creative careers cannot be overstated. David and Megan Ellison have credited their grounded upbringing and exposure to responsibility and accountability as key drivers of their success.
Barbara fostered an environment that encouraged storytelling, artistic curiosity, and personal discipline, enabling her children to thrive in Hollywood while maintaining integrity and focus.
Continuing Legacy In 2025
As of 2025, Barbara Boothe continues to live in Wilsonville, Oregon, maintaining her horse farm and private lifestyle. While she remains largely out of the public eye, her contributions are felt through her children’s ongoing success and the thriving equestrian enterprise she built.
Her life serves as a model for balancing privacy, passion, and parenting, proving that influence and legacy are not always measured by public recognition.
Conclusion: The Quiet Strength Of Barbara Boothe
Barbara Boothe’s story is remarkable not because of scandal, fame, or headlines, but because of her deliberate choices, dedication, and quiet influence. She represents a different type of success—one built on independence, family, and meaningful achievements.
While Larry Ellison’s life is marked by wealth and public attention, Barbara’s legacy is found in the lives she nurtured, the passion she pursued, and the values she instilled. Her story reminds us that the most profound achievements often occur behind the scenes, quietly shaping the future in lasting ways.
FAQs About Barbara Boothe
How Old Is Barbara Boothe?
Barbara Boothe has kept her early life and exact birthdate private. Her age is not publicly disclosed.
What Is Barbara Boothe’s Net Worth?
Her net worth is estimated in the multi-millions, primarily due to her own investments and the value of Wild Turkey Farm.
Where Does Barbara Boothe Live Now?
As of 2025, she resides in Wilsonville, Oregon, on her 200-acre horse ranch, Wild Turkey Farm.
Did Barbara Boothe Remarry After Larry Ellison?
No public records indicate that she remarried. She has maintained her private lifestyle.
What Is Barbara Boothe’s Contribution To Her Children’s Success?
Barbara was the primary caregiver and influence in her children’s upbringing, instilling discipline, creativity, and independence that shaped their Hollywood careers.
What Is Wild Turkey Farm?
Wild Turkey Farm is Barbara Boothe’s horse ranch and breeding facility, featuring barns, pastures, and professional training areas, recognized for excellence in equestrian life.
Why Has Barbara Boothe Stayed Out Of The Public Eye?
She values privacy, focusing on family, personal passions, and meaningful living rather than media attention or public recognition.
How Did Barbara Influence Hollywood Through Her Children?
By fostering creativity, responsibility, and discipline in her children, Barbara Boothe indirectly influenced the entertainment industry through David and Megan Ellison’s film production careers.
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