Fred Smith, visionary founder of FedEx, dead at 80

Frederick W. Smith, the visionary founder and former CEO of FedEx, died Saturday, family members confirmed.

Smith, 80, left an indelible legacy in the logistics industry and in the city of Memphis, Tenn., where he lived much of his life and cemented FedEx as one of the world's most influential companies.

Born in Marks, Miss., Smith founded FedEx in 1971 after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. His military experience shaped his leadership, characterized by clarity, decisiveness and a relentless focus on execution. Under his leadership, FedEx revolutionized global logistics, becoming an economic mainstay in Memphis and employing thousands of people worldwide.

Smith stepped down as CEO in 2022, but continued as executive chairman, guiding the company's strategic vision and sustainability efforts.

Beyond his business impact, Smith was a fierce advocate for civic causes, education and veterans' organizations.

His commitment to Memphis helped position the city as a global logistics hub. He is survived by his 10 children, who, along with the Memphis community and FedEx employees, mourn his loss.

In an official statement, Raj Subramaniam, current CEO of FedEx, expressed the company's deep sorrow:

"It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I share that Frederick W. Smith, our founder and executive chairman, died earlier today.

"Fred was more than just the pioneer of an industry and the founder of our great company. He was the heart and soul of FedEx – its PSP culture, values, integrity, and spirit. He was a mentor to many and a source of inspiration to all. He was also a proud father, grandfather, husband, Marine, and friend; please keep the entire Smith family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

"As we begin to process this tremendous loss, it is important that we take care of one another and demonstrate the passion and compassion that Fred embodied every day. In the coming days and weeks, I know we will all find ways to honor his memory and pay tribute to his legacy."

Political reactions to Smith's death

Shelby County, Tenn., Mayor Lee Harris noted on X:

"Fred Smith’s death is an incalculable loss to Memphis, Shelby County, and the world. His genius, leadership, and commitment to community and family cannot be replicated. The huge shoes he leaves behind will forever be empty."

Memphis Mayor Paul Young also took to X to commemorate Smith's life:

"Fred Smith was more than a business leader — he was a visionary whose ideas reshaped not only the global economy but the very identity of Memphis. When he founded FedEx, he didn’t just launch a company, he changed the way the world moves. What started as his bold belief in overnight delivery became a global force, connecting people, powering businesses, and linking communities across continents. And he chose to do it from Memphis. Fred’s innovative spirit challenged all of us to think bigger. To dream beyond the limits. To imagine what’s possible, and then deliver it. In many ways, he gave our city wings. FedEx has brought jobs, investment, and international recognition to Memphis, and Fred’s impact is woven into the fabric of who we are today. On behalf of the City of Memphis, I offer our deepest condolences to the Smith family and the entire FedEx community. Fred Smith was a legend in every sense of the word, and his legacy will continue to move Memphis, and the world, forward."