Updated: Sunday, June 22, at 8:01 a.m.
Frederick W. "Fred" Smith, founder and executive chairman of FedEx and a transformative figure in the shipping and logistics industry, died at 80. FedEx CEO Raj Subramaniam announced his death on Saturday, June 21, calling Smith “the heart and soul of FedEx” and praising his enduring influence on the company’s values and culture.
“Fred was more than just the pioneer of an industry and the founder of our great company,” Subramaniam said in a statement to employees. “He was a mentor to many and a source of inspiration to all. He was also a proud father, grandfather, husband, Marine, and friend.”
Smith founded Federal Express in 1973, launching an overnight delivery model that revolutionized global commerce. His decision to headquarter the company in Memphis not only shaped FedEx but also helped define the city’s modern identity as an international logistics hub. The Greater Memphis Chamber credited Smith with transforming Memphis into “America’s Distribution Center,” calling him “the architect” of the city’s economic future.
“Mr. Smith’s revolutionary vision created tens of thousands of jobs for Memphians and established our city as a crucial hub in the global economy,” said Chamber President and CEO Ted Townsend. “The impact of his leadership extends far beyond FedEx, touching every corner of our business community.”
Under Smith’s leadership, Memphis became home to one of the world's largest cargo airports and earned a reputation as a center of innovation and economic opportunity. His efforts also helped popularize the term “Digital Delta,” referring to the region’s tech and logistics potential.
As tributes pour in from across the globe, FedEx employees and civic leaders are honoring a legacy that reshaped industries and cities. Smith’s influence, they say, will continue to be felt in the culture of the company he built and the city he helped put on the map.
Memphis has lost its most important citizen, Fred Smith.
— Steve Cohen (@RepCohen) June 22, 2025
Federal Express is our economic engine. But also, in anything that affected Memphis, Fred Smith was there as Citizen Smith. From the FedEx Forum to Liberty Stadium—which is being updated with his help—to our world class…
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Fred Smith. As the founder of FedEx, his leadership and innovation transformed global commerce, and he will be remembered for his relentless drive, patriotism, and commitment to service. His legacy will endure not only through the company he…
— Sen. Marsha Blackburn (@MarshaBlackburn) June 22, 2025
With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Fred Smith, the visionary founder of FedEx, whose groundbreaking innovation transformed global commerce and connected the world. pic.twitter.com/rMQVvvjLlk
— RP of Shelby County (@GOPShelby) June 22, 2025
The Greater Memphis Chamber extends its deepest condolences to the Smith family, @FedEx employees worldwide, and all who were touched by Fred Smith's life and legacy.
— Greater Memphis Chamber (@MemphisChamber) June 22, 2025
We are committed to continuing his vision of Memphis as a center for innovation and economic opportunity. pic.twitter.com/H7nYrH9VMw
I’m deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Fred Smith, a visionary leader and cherished member of our community.
— Senator Brent Taylor (@SenBrentTaylor) June 22, 2025
As the founder of FedEx, Fred revolutionized global logistics, creating countless jobs and opportunities right here in Memphis. His entrepreneurial spirit,…
Condolences to the family of FedEx founder Fred Smith, who has died at the age of 80. Smith in 2007 made a significant contribution toward the FedEx Global Education Center on the @UNC campus and is the father of three Tar Heel graduates: Arthur Smith ’05, Rachel Smith ’06 and… pic.twitter.com/ziDNjusEHc
— Lee Pace (@LeePaceTweet) June 22, 2025
FedEx founder Fred Smith — father of #Steelers OC Arthur Smith — has passed away at the age of 80.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) June 22, 2025
Smith transformed global commerce and built one of the most iconic brands in the world. RIP. pic.twitter.com/MIW72Z1KxZ
Deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, FedEx founder Fred Smith. A gentle, kind, and brilliant giant of business, he always offered me his hard‑earned wisdom and the warmest word. A Marine who led with core values and deep integrity. My thoughts are with his family. May the… pic.twitter.com/hKfHwrndwe
— Marc Benioff (@Benioff) June 22, 2025
Very sad news. My sympathy to Fred Smith’s family, friends and the many lives he made better for having lived. It was a privilege to hear his economic, business and political insights first hand earlier this month. A big loss for Memphis. https://t.co/LKYQTAq3kE
— Mick Wright (@mickwright) June 22, 2025
Fred Smith was the most significant Memphian in history. He benefited our city in every way possible and allowed generations of Memphians to achieve the American dream. God bless Fred Smith. My condolences to the Smith family.
— Jim Strickland (@JStrick901) June 22, 2025