FedEx Founder Fred Smith Dies at 80

Fred Smith, founder and executive chairman of FedEx, died at age 80, reportedly following a heart attack. A Yale graduate and Vietnam War veteran, Smith revolutionized logistics with his overnight delivery concept, launching FedEx in 1973. Under his leadership, FedEx expanded from a small fleet to a global company with over 500,000 employees and revenues exceeding $80 billion, greatly impacting global commerce and Memphis. Smith was recognized for his business acumen and philanthropy, supporting local initiatives like the FedExForum and Memphis Zoo. He was the father of 10 children and remained influential at FedEx until his death. City and state leaders, along with FedEx CEO Raj Subramaniam, lauded Smith’s legacy of innovation and service.