Barbara Boothe may not be a household name in the traditional sense, but her life story intersects with some of the most fascinating cultural and business developments of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Best known as the former wife of billionaire Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison and the mother of two prominent Hollywood producers, Barbara has led a life marked by quiet dignity, personal resilience, and meaningful contribution beyond the spotlight. In this complete, fact-based biography, we explore her early life, relationships, later pursuits, and the reasons behind her enduring public interest.
Early Life and Personal Background
Barbara Boothe was born and raised in the United States, though her exact birth date has never been publicly disclosed — a reflection of her preference for privacy. She grew up in an environment that valued education and independence, ultimately graduating from Stanford University after attending Lincoln High School.
Even before her associations with Silicon Valley and Hollywood, Barbara was noted for her poise, strength, and focus on her own growth — qualities that would later play a role in shaping her family and personal life away from the public eye.
Meeting Larry Ellison: A Turning Point
Barbara Boothe came into public view when she met Larry Ellison, the future co-founder of Oracle Corporation, while working as a receptionist at Relational Software Inc., the company that would eventually become Oracle. At the time, Ellison was an emerging entrepreneur in the tech industry.
Their relationship quickly evolved, and they married in 1983. Although their union lasted only a few years, it established a family foundation that would tie Barbara’s legacy to two children who would make significant impacts in entertainment.
Family Life: Motherhood and Raising Future Creators
During her marriage to Larry Ellison, Barbara Boothe became a mother to two children:
- David Ellison – born in January 1983
- Megan Ellison – born three years later
Both children have gone on to distinguished careers in the film industry, carving their own paths as high-profile producers. David is the CEO of Skydance Media — a powerhouse in Hollywood producing major blockbusters — while Megan founded Annapurna Pictures, known for films with depth and critical acclaim.
Barbara’s role in their formative years — grounded, intentional, and focused on character development rather than celebrity — is often credited as a quiet but important influence on their later success.
Marriage, Challenges, and Divorce
Despite the early promise of their relationship, Barbara Boothe and Larry Ellison’s marriage came to an end in 1986, just three years after they said “I do.” Their split was attributed to personal differences, including Ellison’s evolving lifestyle as his career soared.
Barbara chose not to pursue high-profile legal battles or public ostracism. Instead, she focused her energy on raising her children and building a life anchored in personal values rather than the glare of Silicon Valley fame.
Life After Divorce: Privacy and Personal Growth
Following her divorce, Barbara Boothe resolutely stepped back from public life, dedicated to her children and her own personal evolution. Unlike many who find themselves in the orbit of fame, she declined the spotlight and chose a path of quiet resilience.
Her priority became nurturing a stable environment for her family, ensuring that her children grew up in a world enriched by their inner strength rather than celebrity culture. This focus helped shape both their characters and their professional trajectories.
Equestrian Passion and Life in Oregon
Barbara Boothe eventually found a new chapter far removed from Silicon Valley’s fast pace. She purchased a sprawling property in Wilsonville, Oregon, transforming it into Wild Turkey Farm, a serene equestrian estate that reflected her love for horses and nature.
Over the course of nearly a decade, she helped design and build structures on the land, creating a home and farm that symbolized her commitment to purposeful living. Her focus was on comfort, peace, and nurturing the animals she adored.
Wild Turkey Farm: Legacy and Value
In 2021, Barbara’s extensive horse farm made headlines again — not for a celebrity event, but because the property was listed for sale at approximately $19.5 million. The estate included multiple barns, an indoor training arena, a manager’s residence, and a spacious main home overlooking expansive fields.
What began as a quiet orchard became a thriving equestrian center with over 100 foals born and nearly 90 horses resident on the land, showcasing Barbara’s deep involvement and commitment to the world of horses.
Barbara Boothe’s Influence Through Her Children
While Barbara has largely remained out of the media spotlight, her influence lives on through David and Megan Ellison, both of whom are major figures in Hollywood. David’s leadership at Skydance has produced films with global reach, while Megan’s Annapurna Pictures has brought critically acclaimed stories to screens worldwide.
Their mother’s emphasis on groundedness, work ethic, and authenticity — values that did not rely on celebrity — helped provide a foundation for their success. This influence has helped shape not only family narratives, but entertainment culture as well.
Public Recognition and Legacy
Barbara Boothe’s story resonates because it is not about chasing headlines; it is about impacting life beyond them. Her quiet perseverance, commitment to family, and ability to craft a meaningful life on her own terms have earned her respect from those who understand the value of substance over spectacle.
Rather than seeking fame, she embraced authenticity — forging a life defined by intentional choices, personal fulfillment, and deep love for her family and passions. Her legacy is a reminder that influence is not always loud — sometimes it is steady and enduring.
Modern Day: Where Barbara Boothe Is Now
As of 2025, Barbara Boothe continues to enjoy a life of calm and purpose in Oregon. She has not remarried and maintains a low public profile, choosing instead to treasure simplicity, nature, and the rich work she has done in creating a home and sanctuary away from public scrutiny.
Her journey shows that success and fulfillment do not require limelight but are often found in self-directed resilience and quiet influence.
Conclusion: More Than a Name in History
Barbara Boothe’s life is a compelling narrative of personal strength and meaningful priorities. From her early years in education and Silicon Valley beginnings to raising two influential children and building a life rooted in authenticity, Barbara’s story is rich with lessons about resilience, choice, and quiet leadership.
She is remembered not just as the former wife of a billionaire, but as a devoted mother, equestrian enthusiast, and a woman who crafted a life defined by purpose over publicity. Her journey continues to inspire those who value inner fulfillment over external recognition.
