MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WDNews) – Frederick W. Smith, the founder of FedEx Corporation and a pioneer in global logistics, has died at 80 years old of allegedly a heart attack.
Born in 1944 in Marks, Mississippi, Smith revolutionized the shipping industry with the launch of Federal Express in 1973. His concept of an air-ground delivery system, developed while still an undergraduate at Yale, would evolve into a global network serving more than 220 countries and territories.
After serving two tours in Vietnam as a Marine, Smith returned home and brought his innovative logistics model to life, anticipating the needs of a growing, tech-driven economy. Today, FedEx employs over 500,000 people, operates 705 aircraft, and processes 17 million shipments daily.
Smith stepped down as CEO in 2022 but remained executive chairman, focusing on governance, innovation, and global policy. Throughout his career, he was deeply involved in public service, sitting on the boards of major companies and charitable institutions including St. Jude and the Mayo Foundation.
Tributes poured in following the news of his death. Raj Subramaniam, Smith’s successor as CEO, shared in a statement:
“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… a mentor to many and a source of inspiration to all.”
