Fred Smith, Visionary Founder of FedEx, Dies at 80
Frederick "Fred" Smith, the pioneering mind behind FedEx and its longtime leader, has died, the company announced in a memo to employees. Smith, who founded the global logistics giant in the early 1970s, was serving as executive chairman before his passing.
A Lifetime of Innovation and Leadership
Born in 1944, Fred Smith transformed FedEx from a humble startup with a fleet of just 14 planes into a worldwide delivery powerhouse operating over 700 aircraft, more than 200,000 vehicles, and nearly 5,000 facilities. Starting with a vision to revolutionize package shipping, he established Federal Express in 1973 with only 389 employees and flights covering 25 U.S. cities.
Over the decades, Smith's leadership saw FedEx grow to handle an astonishing 17 million shipments daily through a global workforce exceeding 500,000 employees. His strategic focus extended beyond business to emphasize sustainability, innovation, and shaping public policy.
From Marine Corps Officer to Corporate Legend
Before his business triumphs, Smith served as an officer in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, an experience that influenced his disciplined, visionary approach to leadership. He stepped down as FedEx's CEO in 2022, passing the baton to Raj Subramaniam, who had been heading company operations.
Remembering a Mentor and Industry Trailblazer
In a heartfelt internal message, CEO Raj Subramaniam reflected on Smith’s enduring legacy: "Fred was more than just the pioneer of an industry and the founder of our great company. He was a mentor to many and a source of inspiration to all."
Smith’s impact on global logistics and business innovation is woven into FedEx’s DNA, a testament to his relentless drive and visionary spirit that reshaped how goods move across the world.
