Llewellyn Notley was an outstanding educator, scholar, civic leader, and historian. Born in Paris, Texas, he was the son of W.J. and Elizabeth Kilpatrick Notley. He earned B.A. and M.A. degrees from the University of Texas and served as a teacher and school administrator from 1912 to 1953. He was chairman of the Freestone County Historical Survey Committee from 1962 to 1970 and of the Burlington-Rock Island Railroad Museum Association. He received civic service and history awards. He married Mary Ettie Waterman and was the father of two daughters.