Junior Earl Defibaugh 91, of Bellefontaine passed away Sunday January 6, 2019 in his home, surrounded by his loving family.  Earl was born June 22, 1927 in Union City, Indiana: the son of Russell Earl and Jesse (Phillips) Defibaugh.  Earl moved to Logan County in 1949 where he owned and operated two Hardware stores, Bellefontaine Hardware and Rushsylvania Hardware, and later owned the local Bottled Gas Company in Rushsylvania.  Earl also built several homes in and around the Bellefontaine area.  However, his real calling was with the Railroad Industry, where he retired as an Engineer after a long and distinguished career.  After his railroad career as a volunteer, Earl drove the engines of the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway through the hills between Nelsonville and Logan Ohio for another 30 years. He coached several of his son's baseball teams, and cherished time spent with his kids and grandkids, especially if that included teaching them how to fish.  He was a devoted husband and loved nature and nature preservation.  From a spiritual perspective he attended and visited with the staff of Hillcrest Baptist Church, and tied life's encounters to Biblical scripture.  He was also a Veteran of WWII US Marine Corp.   Survivors include his wife Carolyn (Kelly) Defibaugh; children Deborah June (William) Birt, Dennis James Defibaugh, Russell Wayne (Corinne) Defibaugh, Marqua Lou Myers, Lee Earl (Pamela) Defibaugh, Andy G. (Kathy) Defibaugh, Timothy (Lisa) Harshsfield, Bryan Earl (Brenda) Defibaugh, Paul J. (Megan) Defibaugh, Michael D. (Amanda) Defibaugh, Tom W. (Chasity) Defibaugh; one brother Harold "Curly" (Martha) Defibaugh; numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by three children Jeff Defibaugh, Christy Defibaugh and David Defibaugh.  Pastor Daniel McCarty will officiate a funeral service 10:30 am Friday January 11, 2019 at Jennings Farley & Seeley Funeral Home and Crematory 5591 US RT 68 S. West Liberty, Ohio 43357. Visitation will be Thursday at the funeral home from 4-7PM.  Burial will be in Highland Memorial Cemetery.  Earl's family would also like to express a special thanks, to the staff of Interim Health Care & Hospice.  In Lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to Interim Health Care & Hospice 3745 Shawnee Rd Suite 108 Lima, Ohio 45806. Email condolences may be directed to www.jenningsfarley.com