FedEx Founder Fred Smith Passes Away at 80: Pioneering Leader's Legacy Lives On

This story will be updated.

Founder of the FedEx Corporation Fred Smith has died Saturday at 80.

Smith was born in 1944 in Marks, Mississippi before going on to earn his undergraduate degree at Yale College where he ultimately began laying the groundwork for what would become Federal Express, which began in 1973.

During Smith's tenure, the company grew into an $87.7 billion corporation. Smith stepped down as CEO of the company in June 2022. Outside of FedEx, Smith worked diligently in helping the community in Memphis, most recently pledging funds for renovations to Liberty Stadium.

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

Reactions began pouring in from around the county and country after news of Smith's passing hit.

Tennessee Political and Civic Leaders -

Memphis Mayor Paul Young said Smith was more than just a business leader, but also a visionary that reshaped not just the global economy, but the identity of Memphis.

"Fred's innovative spirit challenged all of us to think bigger," Young's statement reads. "To dream beyond the limits. To imagine what's possible, and then deliver it. In many ways, he gave our city wings. FedEx has brough jobs, investment and international recognition to Memphis, 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."

Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris called Smith's passing an incalculable loss to Memphis, Shelby County and the world, saying his leadership and commitment to the community could not be replicated.

"With heavy hearts, we mourn the passing of Fred Smith, the visionary founder of FedEx, whose groundbreaking innovation transformed global commerce, connected the world and revolutionized Memphis industry," the Republican Party of Shelby County wrote in a statement.

Tennessee State Senator Brent Taylor said he was saddened to hear about the passing of, "a visionary leader and cherished member of our community."

"We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of Fred Smith, a visionary leader whose impact on our community and the world is immeasurable," the Millington Area Chamber of Commerce wrote in a statement. "As the founder of FedEx, Fred transformed global logistics, bringing countless jobs and opportunities directly to not only Memphis, but Millington and the whole world."

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn also reflected on Smith’s legacy, saying,

"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 built but through the countless lives he touched. Praying for his wife, children, and family."

Representative Justin Pearson expressed his condolences and spoke on the significant impact impact Smith had on how the world does business.

"Fred Smith changed the course of American history- right here from Memphis, Tennessee. By founding FedEx, he not only revolutionized business logistics and the global economy but also built one of the most influential and iconic businesses in the world.

"The FedEx logo stands as an enduring symbol of the flagship enterprise that has impacted our city and state in immeasurable ways. Oceana and I are praying for the Smith family during their time of bereavement and hope you will join us in doing so as well."

United States Congressman Steve Cohen (D-Memphis) said that Memphis had lost its most important citizen.

"Federal Express is our economic engine," Cohen said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "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 zoo. Thank you, Fred!"

Local Businesses & Organizations -

Kevin Kane, President & CEO of Memphis Tourism , shared a statement on behalf of the Memphis Tourism industry regarding Smith's passing.

"The size and scope of the impact Fred Smith has had on our tourism community is unmeasurable in so many ways. His leadership and ability to bring people and projects together made the impossible possible. The inspiration of Fred Smith and what can be done, will benefit Memphis for decades to come. Our sincere condolences and gratitude to the Smith Family and the FedEx Family."

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People's Memphis Branch released a statement offering their condolences to his family.

"He was an astute businessman, international business icon and family man," NAACP Memphis branch president Kermit Moore said in the statement. "FedEx has been a partner and supporter of the NAACP Memphis Branch, and TN NAACP State Conference for decades. His impact to this community is unmatched. Mr. Smith will be missed."

The President of the University of Memphis , Bill Hardgrave, shared some words on behalf of UofM, expressing admiration for Smith's contribution to local education.

"Fred Smith was a titan of industry and a passionate Memphian who devoted more than 50 years to growing this city. A fierce advocate for education, he helped shape opportunities at the University of Memphis that have elevated our campus — investments that include top-tier facilities, academic programs and internships that connect our students to the height of corporate America. Through the Learning inspired by FedEx (LiFE) program, Fred Smith gave his employees the opportunity to acquire college degrees at the UofM, providing flexible schedules and tuition assistance to those who needed it most.

"His legacy will forever be displayed through the lives of our students, the strength of our programs and the deep bond between FedEx and our institution. Our thoughts are with the Smith family and the entire FedEx community as we mourn the loss of one of Memphis’s most transformative leaders."

The National Civil Rights Museum also issued a statement on Smith's passing, commemorating his time and commitment to the community.

"Fred Smith, founder of FedEx and a visionary leader, embodied the spirit of innovation, resilience, and community uplift. His work forever changed the landscape of Memphis, and his impact continues to resonate with the enduring mission of the National Civil Rights Museum.

"Since the Museum's founding in 1991, FedEx has been a key partner. Over the ensuing 29 years, the company has contributed millions to support the museum’s mission. Funds were designated for expanding the “Unpacking Racism for Action” dialogue series and enhancing educational exhibits and visitor amenities at the Boarding House/Legacy Building. FedEx sponsors free admission to the Museum on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with hundreds of team members also volunteering during the MLK weekend to welcome visitors.

"Smith's commitment mirrors the museum’s message: true transformation grows from economic empowerment and inclusion. By investing in Memphis’s workforce across race, background, or circumstance, he expanded the circle of opportunity.

"We join the world in mourning his passing. We join the legions of hopeful citizens and carry forward his vision, forever grateful for his legacy."

The Memphis Zoo expressed its condolences and emphasized its appreciation for Smith's love and support of the organization.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of Fred Smith, a true friend to the Memphis Zoo and one of our most visionary supporters. His leadership and generosity helped shape some of the Zoo’s most beloved spaces, including his instrumental role in bringing giant pandas to Memphis, an achievement that placed our city on the global conservation stage.

"Fred’s support went far beyond funding. He championed animal care, education, and community connection, helping us build immersive exhibits like Teton Trek and expand our reach as a leader in wildlife conservation. His belief in the Zoo as a unifying force for Memphis inspired our team and touched generations of visitors."

Sports -

Fred Smith's impact extended deeply into the world of sports as well, both on the national stage and here at home in Memphis.

“ The Memphis Showboats of the United Football League are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Fred Smith. Mr. Smith's love and devotion for the city of Memphis and this country were both unwavering and ardent. He was instrumental in bringing the Showboats back to Memphis, and our city, our team, and our league will miss him dearly. We offer our most heartfelt condolences to the entire Smith family, as well as all of those he touched in our Memphis community. His legacy in Memphis and the world is immeasurable.”

Memphis Grizzlies Chairman and Owner Robert Pera echoed that sentiment, stating,

" On behalf of the entire Memphis Grizzlies organization, I want to express our deepest condolences to both the Smith and the greater FedEx families.

"Fred Smith has been a driving force in the Memphis community since day one, and his endless contributions as a civic leader and corporate citizen are a part of an incredible legacy that will be remembered in our community and country forever. He will be deeply missed."

The AutoZone Liberty Bow l also sends its thoughts and prayers to the family of Fred Smith.

"As the founder of FedEx and a world leader, Fred was also an important figure in the history of our Bowl. Fred received the Bowl's highest honor, the Distinguished Citizen Award in 2004.

"Fred loved the competitive and strategic aspects of football and believed that the football field was indeed an outstanding laboratory for leadership.

"From Fred’s football days in high school in Memphis to his unmatched support of college and professional football, Fred was truly a giant who will be sorely missed."

National Recognition -

Smith was once cited in Forbes magazine’s list of the '100 Greatest Living Business Minds.'

"The Memphis Shelby County Airport Authority extends its deepest condolences to the Smith family and FedEx," board chairman Michael Keeney said in a statement. "Fred was an innovator, a leader and a cornerstone of the Memphis community. His impact on the airport and our great city cannot be understated."