Fred Smith, a pioneering force in the world of logistics and the founder of FedEx Corporation, has died at 80.

Smith, who built FedEx from a revolutionary idea into a powerhouse in global transportation, passed away Saturday, marking the end of a legacy that transformed commerce and cemented Memphis, Tennessee, as a critical hub in global shipping, as WREG reports.

Born in 1944 in the small town of Marks, Mississippi, Frederick W. Smith would grow into a corporate titan whose innovations changed how the world does business. After earning his degree at Yale University in 1966, where he famously conceived the concept that would become FedEx for a class project, Smith served in the United States Marine Corps for four years.

Following his military service, Smith officially launched Federal Express in 1973. With operations based in Memphis, Tennessee, the company initially focused on time-sensitive package delivery -- an unconventional concept at the time but one that would revolutionize express shipping forever.

His choice to anchor FedEx's headquarters in Memphis proved pivotal, transforming the city into a critical transportation hub. Multiple FedEx facilities there, including the massive FedEx World Hub near the Memphis International Airport, now connect over 200 countries and support thousands of jobs.

From startup vision to global giant

Under Smith’s strategic leadership, FedEx grew into a multi-billion-dollar operation active in nearly every corner of the world. The company facilitated the overnight delivery model long before it became standard in e-commerce, creating ripple effects in commerce, technology, and supply chain management.

Smith remained FedEx's CEO until 2022, when he stepped back from day-to-day management and became executive chairman. In this role, he emphasized long-term goals such as innovation, sustainability, public policy, and board governance -- areas he believed were critical to the company's continued success.

Smith's robust public presence and civic engagement mirrored his entrepreneurial leadership. Congressman Steve Cohen noted Smith’s widespread local involvement, citing major Memphis projects like Liberty Stadium and the FedEx Forum, as well as his support for local institutions like the Memphis Zoo.

Leaders express condolences

News of Smith’s death was met with heartfelt tributes across political and community lines. U.S. Sen. Brent Taylor called Smith a “visionary leader” whose work brought global attention and economic strength to Memphis. Taylor also praised Smith’s entrepreneurial drive and deep respect for the city, saying, “He truly did Make Memphis Matter to the world.”

Sen. Marsha Blackburn highlighted Smith’s innovation and patriotism, remembering him as an inspiration whose influence went beyond business. “His legacy will endure not only through the company he built but through the countless lives he touched,” Blackburn said, offering prayers for his family.

Local officials also spoke highly of his impact. Memphis Mayor Paul Young celebrated Smith’s “innovative spirit” and his role in “changing the way the world moves”. Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris echoed that sentiment, describing Smith’s passing as an “incalculable loss” and stating that the void he leaves behind will be impossible to fill.

Community institutions honor Smith’s contributions

The Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority, home to FedEx’s largest global hub, released a statement through its chairman, Michael Keeney. “His impact on the airport and our great city cannot be understated,” Keeney said, adding that the entire community mourns his loss.

The NAACP Memphis Branch also offered condolences. President Kermit Moore called Smith “an astute businessman” and praised FedEx for its long-standing support of the civil rights organization. Moore stressed the positive impact Smith had on initiatives across Memphis and beyond.

Over the years, Smith’s leadership made him a symbol of innovation. He managed to strike a balance between civic responsibility and corporate growth, making FedEx a household name while staying personally involved in local developments and philanthropic efforts.

Lessons to learn

1. Recognize the power of community investment. Smith’s decision to establish FedEx’s home base in Memphis brought jobs and infrastructure to the region. His choice reminds us how enterprise decisions can benefit not only shareholders but local economies as well.

2. Leadership extends beyond business profits. Smith’s legacy includes not just economic achievements but also civic engagement. From supporting local stadiums to advocating for civic causes, meaningful involvement in a community fosters better outcomes for all residents.

3. Legacy is built over a lifetime, not overnight. Smith began with a classroom idea, nurtured it through vision and service, and grew it into something that touched people and places worldwide. While crime or tragedy can strike anyone at any time, building a lasting and positive legacy prepares communities to remember and uplift those who pass.

Why this story matters

Fred Smith’s passing is not just a loss to the business world but to an entire city shaped by his vision. Memphis became a global logistics powerhouse in large part due to Smith’s efforts and innovations.

His story serves as a reminder of how one person’s ideas and decisions can leave an enduring imprint on commerce, infrastructure, and community identity. By honoring his legacy, Memphis celebrates resilience, ingenuity, and shared purpose.