While tech mogul Larry Ellison is a household name thanks to his role as the co-founder of Oracle Corporation, very little is known about the woman who once stood quietly beside him—Barbara Boothe. Her story is not one of fame or high-profile ventures but of grace, privacy, and purpose. Barbara Boothe chose a path far removed from Silicon Valley’s spotlight, yet her influence on the Ellison family legacy is profound and lasting.
From her early role at Oracle’s predecessor to her life after divorce, Barbara’s journey reflects independence, deep commitment to family, and a quiet pursuit of personal passions. This article takes an in-depth look at her life, her marriage to Larry Ellison, her children, and how she built a fulfilling life away from the public gaze.
Quick Bio: Barbara Boothe
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Barbara Boothe |
| Known For | Former wife of Larry Ellison |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Religion | Christian |
| Education | Stanford University |
| Occupation | Former receptionist at Relational Software (Oracle) |
| Years Married | 1983–1986 |
| Children | David Ellison, Megan Ellison |
| Current Residence | Wilsonville, Oregon |
| Known Property | Wild Turkey Farm |
| Marital Status | Not remarried |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | Several million dollars |
Who Is Barbara Boothe? A Brief Overview
Barbara Boothe is best known as the ex-wife of billionaire Larry Ellison, but her story deserves recognition in its own right. She was never a public figure by choice. Her connection to Ellison and their two children, both of whom became influential Hollywood producers, has often overshadowed her quiet accomplishments. What sets Barbara apart is her deliberate decision to avoid the public eye and focus on her family and passions. She remains a fascinating yet largely unsung figure in the broader story of the Ellison family.
Early Life, Education, And Background
Very little has been made public about Barbara Boothe’s early life, which is reflective of her lifelong commitment to privacy. She is known to be American, of Caucasian descent, and reportedly attended Stanford University, one of the country’s most prestigious institutions. This strong academic foundation likely influenced her early professional life, including her eventual entry into the tech space. Her background and early influences are largely undocumented, but what is clear is that she carried intelligence, discretion, and quiet strength into every phase of her life.
How Barbara Boothe Met Larry Ellison
Barbara met Larry Ellison while working as a receptionist at Relational Software Inc., the company that would later become Oracle. At the time, Ellison was an ambitious and driven entrepreneur, working tirelessly to grow his software business. Their paths crossed in the office setting, and their relationship quickly evolved into something deeper. Barbara became more than just a colleague—she became a partner during a critical time in Ellison’s life as his company was on the brink of taking off.
Their relationship led to marriage in 1983, the same year their first child, David Ellison, was born. For a brief period, Barbara had a front-row seat to the growth of one of Silicon Valley’s most powerful companies. However, she was never drawn to the fame or power that surrounded Ellison.
Marriage To Larry Ellison: A Short But Defining Chapter
Barbara and Larry’s marriage lasted from 1983 to 1986, a time that coincided with Oracle’s rapid ascent. During their marriage, they welcomed two children—David and Megan Ellison. Despite the short duration of their union, it was a defining period for both individuals. Larry was rising in the tech world, while Barbara focused on raising their children and maintaining some normalcy amidst the chaos of a growing empire.
Their marriage ended just after the birth of their second child and the public offering of Oracle. While the reasons for the divorce were never officially disclosed, various reports have suggested that Larry’s demanding work schedule and personal choices may have played a role.
Divorce And Life-Changing Decisions
Following their separation, Barbara Boothe made a life-changing decision that would define her for decades to come—she stepped away from the orbit of Silicon Valley and the headlines that surrounded her ex-husband. She chose instead to focus on raising her children in a stable, grounded environment, far from the pressures of the public eye.
She was awarded primary custody of both children and relocated to create a more private life for her family. While Larry continued his high-profile business and personal ventures, Barbara quietly built a world centered on family, values, and personal fulfillment.
Motherhood: Raising David And Megan Ellison
Barbara Boothe’s greatest legacy may be the way she raised her children. David Ellison, now a successful film producer and founder of Skydance Media, has credited his mother with instilling in him a strong sense of discipline and work ethic. Megan Ellison, the creative force behind Annapurna Pictures, has also spoken about her mother’s impact on her life and artistic journey.
Despite having access to immense wealth through their father, Barbara maintained a household that valued chores, independence, and accountability. David has shared stories about receiving a modest allowance for completing household tasks, a stark contrast to the lavish lifestyle that could have easily been theirs. This parenting approach helped shape both children into thoughtful and accomplished individuals.
Life After Larry Ellison: Choosing Privacy Over Fame
Unlike many who gain proximity to fame and wealth, Barbara Boothe never sought the spotlight. After her divorce, she kept a remarkably low profile. She did not engage in public interviews, avoided the media, and had no presence on social media platforms. Her life was centered around raising her children and pursuing personal passions away from the glare of publicity.
Even when her children became famous figures in their own right, Barbara remained in the background, offering support without stepping into the limelight. Her choice to stay private is a central theme in her life, making her one of the most quietly influential figures in the Ellison family story.
Wild Turkey Farm And Her Life As An Equestrian
In the early 2000s, Barbara Boothe purchased a 200-acre property in Wilsonville, Oregon, and turned it into a world-class horse breeding and training facility known as Wild Turkey Farm. This was far from a vanity project—it was the realization of a lifelong love for horses. She spent years developing the land, building barns, training spaces, and eventually a beautiful 10,000-square-foot home.
Wild Turkey Farm became recognized as a respected name in the equestrian world. With over 100 foals born on-site and top-tier facilities including indoor arenas, specialized barns, and pastures, Barbara built more than a farm—she built a legacy. In 2021, the property was listed for $19.5 million, reflecting both its financial and sentimental value.
Net Worth And Financial Independence
While Barbara Boothe’s exact net worth has never been disclosed publicly, estimates suggest she is worth several million dollars. This includes any financial settlement from her divorce, earnings from Wild Turkey Farm, and other private investments. Importantly, Barbara never depended on public association with Larry Ellison to sustain her life or reputation.
Her financial path has been marked by smart decisions and self-reliance. The listing of her Oregon horse ranch not only demonstrated her business acumen but also reinforced the image of a woman who quietly built something of lasting value without the need for public validation.
Public Misconceptions About Barbara Boothe
Despite her best efforts to live a quiet life, several misconceptions have surrounded Barbara Boothe over the years. Some assume she enjoyed a lavish, media-driven lifestyle after marrying a billionaire. In reality, she deliberately stepped away from that world. Others mistakenly believe that Larry Ellison raised their children alone, when in fact, Barbara was their primary caregiver throughout their formative years.
There is also the false belief that she remarried or became a public figure after her divorce. However, no public record supports these claims. Barbara’s legacy lies in the life she created on her own terms, not in the myths that occasionally circulate online.
Her Legacy Through Her Children’s Success
Barbara Boothe’s influence is most clearly seen in the remarkable success of her children. David and Megan Ellison are not only successful entrepreneurs but also respected creative leaders. Their ability to lead, create, and stay grounded despite enormous privilege speaks volumes about their upbringing.
Through her parenting and values, Barbara helped shape a legacy that extends beyond wealth and fame. She built character, fostered creativity, and showed that a quiet life can still be deeply impactful. Her story is one of intentional living—grounded, powerful, and inspiring in its own way.
Final Thoughts
Barbara Boothe may not appear in headlines or business magazines, but her story is every bit as important as those who do. She made choices that prioritized family, peace, and purpose over fame and fortune. In doing so, she became a model of quiet strength and unwavering dedication.
In a world often obsessed with celebrity and visibility, Barbara Boothe reminds us that some of the most meaningful contributions are made behind the scenes. Her legacy lives on in her children, in her beautiful Oregon ranch, and in the values she upheld—proof that a life well-lived doesn’t need a spotlight to shine.
FAQs About Barbara Boothe
How Did Barbara Boothe Meet Larry Ellison?
She met Larry Ellison while working as a receptionist at Relational Software, which later became Oracle.
Was Barbara Boothe Married To Larry Ellison?
Yes, they were married from 1983 to 1986 and had two children together.
Where Does Barbara Boothe Live Now?
As of recent public records, she resides in Wilsonville, Oregon, at her horse ranch, Wild Turkey Farm.
Did Barbara Boothe Remarry After Her Divorce?
There is no public record of her remarrying after her divorce from Larry Ellison.
What Is Wild Turkey Farm?
It is a 200-acre equestrian facility founded by Barbara Boothe in Oregon, known for breeding and training warmblood horses.
How Did Barbara Influence Her Children?
She raised David and Megan Ellison with a focus on discipline, creativity, and independence, which greatly influenced their careers in Hollywood.
What Is Barbara Boothe’s Net Worth?
While not publicly confirmed, her net worth is estimated in the multi-millions, especially considering the value of her property and private holdings.
People Also Read: Who Is Jordan Bratman? A Closer Look at Christina Aguilera’s Ex-Husband and His Life Today