MEMPHIS, June 22 WSH） — Fred Smith, founder, former CEO, and Chairman Emeritus of FedEx, passed away on June 21 at the age of 80 due to heart failure. Widely regarded as a pioneer in modern logistics, Smith built FedEx into a global delivery empire serving over 220 countries and territories.
From Marine to Delivery Industry Legend
Born in Mississippi in 1944, Smith graduated from Yale University and served in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he fought in the Vietnam War and was awarded for bravery. As a student, he developed the “hub-and-spoke” distribution model, which he later turned into reality in 1973 with the founding of FedEx, ushering in a new era in express delivery.
What began with just 14 small aircraft and 389 employees grew into a global powerhouse with over 700,000 staff members, 705 aircraft, and 200,000 vehicles. Today, FedEx boasts a market capitalization of $87.7 billion.
Architect of Corporate Culture and Vision
FedEx CEO Raj Subramaniam praised Smith as the cornerstone of the company’s culture, integrity, and teamwork—an inspiring mentor to countless employees.
Since officially retiring in 2022, Smith shifted his focus to philanthropy and business consulting. Though he made few public appearances in recent years, he did make a cameo in the film Cast Away. His passing has prompted widespread mourning across Memphis and the state of Tennessee. FedEx announced it would hold global tributes to honor the legacy and spirit of its legendary founder.
