Fred Smith, Visionary FedEx Founder and Vietnam Veteran, Dies at 80

Fred Smith, the trailblazing founder of FedEx and a pioneer of modern logistics, has died at the age of 80, the company announced.

Smith, who launched the global shipping giant in 1973 with just 14 planes and 389 employees, went on to revolutionize the way the world moves packages. Under his leadership, FedEx grew into a delivery powerhouse, now boasting more than 500,000 employees, a fleet of 705 aircraft, and 200,000 vehicles operating worldwide.

“Fred was more than just the pioneer of an industry and the founder of our great company. He was the heart and soul of FedEx,”
said CEO Raj Subramaniam in a message to staff.

A Legacy That Changed the World

Smith didn’t just create a company—he invented a model. While studying at Yale University, he developed the business concept that would later become FedEx’s defining feature: the hub-and-spoke delivery system. That model, with Memphis, Tennessee as its central hub, remains the backbone of FedEx operations today.

From Battlefield to Boardroom

Before changing the face of global shipping, Smith served in the U.S. Marine Corps, joining after graduating from Yale. He completed two combat tours in Vietnam, earning multiple commendations for bravery and service, and eventually left the military as a captain in 1969.

A Quiet Giant with a Lasting Impact

Despite his remarkable achievements, Smith largely avoided the spotlight. He remained closely tied to his Memphis roots and kept a low profile—though he did make a brief cameo in the 2000 film Cast Away, starring Tom Hanks as a stranded FedEx employee.

“He was a mentor to many and a source of inspiration to all,” Subramaniam said.
“He was also a proud father, grandfather, husband, Marine, and friend.”

Fred Smith stepped down as FedEx’s CEO in 2022, leaving behind not only a thriving company, but also an enduring influence on global commerce and American entrepreneurship.