Though the world knows Larry Ellison as the billionaire co-founder of Oracle Corporation, few are familiar with the woman who played a significant part in his personal life and quietly helped raise the next generation of success—Barbara Boothe. A woman of quiet strength and grace, Barbara lived through the rapid rise of one of the most influential tech giants in Silicon Valley and chose a different path, one marked by privacy, purpose, and peace.

This article uncovers the lesser-known story of Barbara Boothe—her life with Larry Ellison, her devotion to family, and her journey from the corporate corridors of Oracle to the serene horse fields of Oregon. It’s not just a side note in a billionaire’s biography—it’s a powerful story of independence, motherhood, and a life lived on one’s own terms.

Quick Bio: Barbara Boothe

From Receptionist to Oracle Co-Founder’s Wife

Barbara Boothe first stepped into the world of technology not as a founder or investor, but as a receptionist at Relational Software Inc., the company that would later be known as Oracle. It was there that she met Larry Ellison, a brilliant but demanding entrepreneur building his dream into what would become a tech empire. Their relationship quickly escalated, and in 1983, they were married. That same year, Barbara gave birth to their first child, David Ellison. Three years later, in 1986, they welcomed their daughter, Megan Ellison.

Despite being married to a man who would become one of the richest individuals on Earth, Barbara never chased the limelight. She chose instead to focus on her role as a mother and homemaker during a time of enormous growth and pressure in Ellison’s life and career. Her quiet dedication would become a defining trait that carried her through both marriage and motherhood.

A Brief but Pivotal Marriage

Barbara and Larry’s marriage lasted just three years. In 1986, shortly after the birth of Megan and the public debut of Oracle, the couple divorced. There were rumors of infidelity on Larry’s part, as his growing wealth and fame brought with them new circles of influence—and temptation. While Larry’s life went on to be filled with headlines and high-profile relationships, Barbara took a markedly different path.

After the divorce, she was awarded custody of the children and removed herself from the fast pace of Silicon Valley. Barbara Boothe made a deliberate choice to raise her children in a more grounded and nurturing environment, away from the constant scrutiny that followed her ex-husband.

Life After Larry Ellison: A Quiet Rebirth

Far from choosing a life of comfort through financial dependence or media attention, Barbara Boothe focused her energies on building a peaceful and purposeful life. In the early 2000s, she purchased a 200-acre plot of land in Wilsonville, Oregon. Over the next decade, she developed the property into Wild Turkey Farm, a stunning horse ranch and breeding facility. This was not just a passion project—it was the manifestation of her lifelong love for horses.

By 2011, she moved into the custom-built main home on the property, a sprawling 10,000-square-foot structure designed to blend luxury with rustic tranquility. With stone floors, cherry wood finishes, and an indoor riding arena, Wild Turkey Farm was a world-class facility—and a symbol of the independent life she had built for herself.

A Devoted Equestrian

Barbara Boothe’s deep involvement in equestrian life goes beyond hobbyist interest. Wild Turkey Farm quickly gained recognition as a reputable breeding and training center for warmblood horses. The facility boasts:

• Five horse barns, including ones dedicated to foals and stallions

• 97 stalls and 33 fenced pastures

• Over 100 foals born on-site

• An indoor arena and multiple professional training areas

In 2021, the farm was listed for $19.5 million—a testament to its value not only as a real estate asset but as a cultivated space of beauty, care, and equestrian excellence.

Raising the Next Generation of Larry Ellison Legacy

Barbara’s most significant legacy, however, lies in her children. Both David and Megan Ellison have risen to prominence in Hollywood, carving paths in the entertainment industry that reflect their mother’s creative influence and nurturing style.

• David Ellison is the founder and CEO of Skydance Media, which has produced hits like Top Gun: Maverick, Mission: Impossible – Fallout, and Star Trek Into Darkness.

• Megan Ellison is the visionary behind Annapurna Pictures, producing Oscar-nominated films like Her, Zero Dark Thirty, and American Hustle. She made history as the first openly lesbian woman to be nominated for two Best Picture Oscars in the same year.

While Larry Ellison’s fortune funded their ventures, Barbara’s influence helped instill discipline, creativity, and a love for storytelling. She fostered a home that valued chores, accountability, and curiosity. David even recalled that he received a $5 allowance for completing chores—a stark contrast to the luxurious lifestyle that Ellison’s wealth could have afforded.

Choosing Privacy Over Publicity

Despite her connection to one of the world’s most high-profile entrepreneurs, Barbara Boothe has remained almost completely private. She does not attend media events, avoids interviews, and has no public presence on social media. Her last public appearance of note was when she listed her farm for sale in 2021. The media coverage focused more on the property than on the woman behind it—a reflection of her preference for staying behind the scenes.

This rarity makes her story all the more compelling. In an age of constant self-promotion and public exposure, Barbara represents a different kind of success: one built on authenticity, simplicity, and strength of character.

Misconceptions About Barbara Boothe

Despite her private nature, several misconceptions have circulated over time:

• Myth 1: She lived a luxurious, media-driven life.
  Truth: She has deliberately kept out of the spotlight.

• Myth 2: Larry Ellison raised David and Megan.
  Truth: Barbara was their primary caregiver, especially during their formative years.

• Myth 3: She remarried or became a public figure after the divorce.
  Truth: There’s no public record of another marriage or any active media presence.

Legacy Through Her Children

In many ways, Barbara Boothe’s legacy lives most vividly through David and Megan Ellison. Both have acknowledged their mother’s role in fostering creativity and independence. Her example taught them the value of hard work, the importance of personal integrity, and the rewards of living a meaningful life outside of public validation.

While Larry Ellison remains a towering figure in technology, Barbara Boothe is the quiet architect of a legacy that reaches beyond software and stock prices—into film, culture, and the lives of those who know her best.

Conclusion

Barbara Boothe’s story is not one of scandal, celebrity, or spotlight—but of substance. She is more than just Larry Ellison’s ex-wife. She is a mother, a mentor, a horsewoman, and an individual who built a life grounded in values that transcend wealth and fame.

In a world where public recognition often overshadows private accomplishments, Barbara Boothe offers a powerful reminder: some of the most profound legacies are the quiet ones.

FAQs

1. How old is Barbara Boothe?
Her exact birthdate is unknown. She has kept her age and early life details private.

2. What is Barbara Boothe’s net worth?
While exact figures are unavailable, she is believed to be worth several million dollars, especially following the sale listing of her $19.5 million ranch.

3. Where does Barbara Boothe live now?
As of 2025, she lives in Wilsonville, Oregon, on her horse ranch called Wild Turkey Farm.

4. Did Barbara Boothe remarry after Larry Ellison?
No public records indicate that she remarried.

5. What is Barbara Boothe’s contribution to her children’s success?
She raised David and Megan Ellison primarily on her own, instilling discipline and encouraging their interest in storytelling and film.