MEMPHIS, Tenn. (Diya TV) — Frederick Wallace Smith, the visionary founder of FedEx and one of the most transformative figures in global logistics, died of natural causes on June 21, 2025, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was 80.

First of all, Smith changed the shipping industry with his trailblazing ideas. Moreover, he built an international powerhouse in FedEx. Throughout his career, he stayed focused on innovation, leadership, and community.

To begin with, Smith was born on August 11, 1944, in Marks, Mississippi, and raised in Memphis. As a teenager, he already showed entrepreneurial drive. Next, he attended Yale College in 1962 and earned a degree in economics. During that time, he first wrote about the concept of overnight shipping. Eventually, that concept became FedEx.

Meanwhile, Smith served four years in the U.S. Marine Corps after college. In those years, he completed two tours of duty in Vietnam. In fact, he earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star, and two Purple Hearts as a platoon leader and company commander. Afterward, Smith often said that the Marine Corps gave him his real business training.

Then, in 1973, Smith launched Federal Express with 14 Dassault Falcon jets. At that time, his goal was simple but bold: overnight shipping. Over the years, that idea reshaped global commerce forever. In addition, under Smith’s leadership as president and CEO, FedEx grew into the world’s largest express company. Today, FedEx has over 500,000 employees and moves $2 trillion in goods annually. Moreover, FedEx now ships to more than 220 countries and handles 17 million deliveries every day.

Likewise, Smith built a company culture that put customers first. Also, FedEx became one of the most admired companies in the world. As a result, its Purple Promise — “I will make every FedEx experience outstanding” — reflects his commitment to service.

Additionally, Smith led FedEx as CEO for decades. Then, in 2022, after one of the longest terms of any Fortune 100 chief executive, he stepped aside and became executive chairman. Still, he stayed involved. In fact, Smith kept shaping company strategy, promoting sustainability, and guiding public policy in transportation.

“Frederick W. Smith pioneered express delivery and connected the world,” said Raj Subramaniam, FedEx’s president and CEO. Furthermore, Subramaniam noted that Smith’s legacy will inspire future generations.

Of course, Smith gave back to many causes. Throughout his life, he supported schools, hospitals, veterans’ programs, sports, and the arts. Additionally, he took on leadership roles outside FedEx. For example, he served as chairman of the U.S.-China Business Council and co-chair of the French American Business Council. Moreover, he served on boards for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Mayo Foundation.

In particular, Smith also co-chaired the U.S. World War II Memorial project and helped establish the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

Beyond business, Smith stayed loyal to Memphis. Indeed, he invested in local youth and health programs. Likewise, many remember him for his hands-on support of local schools, sports teams, and community projects. More importantly, Smith always believed in giving back to his hometown.

“Mr. Smith was dedicated to making Memphis a better place,” said a family spokesperson. Above all, they added that he was proud of his roots and his role in strengthening his community.

Finally, Frederick Smith was also a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Diane, and his children Stacey Rokas, Laurie Hooper, Richard Smith, Kathleen Forbush, Molly Heussenstamm, Arthur Smith, Rachel O’Neal, Sam Atkinson, and Cannon Smith. Additionally, he leaves behind 31 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Windland Smith Rice.