World-famous businessman and the revolutionary founder of FedEx, whose vision regenerated the express delivery business and helped propel the American economy, passed away at 80.
See the tweet below this post.
Fred Smith, a Marine Corps veteran who served two tours in Vietnam, built a global shipping empire from scratch that now employs over 500,000 people.
His remarkable success story exemplifies the American dream and the power of free enterprise.
Smith founded Federal Express in 1973, starting with just 14 small aircraft operating out of Memphis International Airport.
The name “Federal Express” was deliberately chosen to convey importance and reliability – values that would become hallmarks of his business philosophy and reflect his deep love for America.
Smith’s revolutionary “hub and spokes” delivery system concept was first developed while he was a student at Yale University.
As a decorated veteran who earned medals for bravery and combat wounds in Vietnam, Smith credited his military experience for his business success.
He left the service as a captain in 1969, but never forgot his Marine Corps values of discipline, determination, and service to country.
FedEx CEO Raj Subramaniam wrote in a statement, “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.”
Unlike many of today’s CEOs who embrace woke corporate politics, Smith maintained a refreshingly low public profile throughout his career, focusing instead on his work, family, and quiet philanthropy.
Frederick W. Smith
August 11, 1944 – June 21, 2025
Pioneer of an industry, founder of FedEx, mentor to many, a source of inspiration to all. Bravo Zulu.Photographed by @annieleibovitz pic.twitter.com/axN6879PWs
— FedEx (@FedEx) June 22, 2025
He served as CEO of FedEx until 2022, building a company that now averages an astounding 17 million shipments per business day.
U.S. Representative Steve Cohen (D-TN) praised Smith as “Memphis’ most important citizen” and acknowledged the economic engine he created.
Moreover, Smith’s company became the backbone of American commerce, enabling businesses of all sizes to compete effectively in the marketplace.
Smith’s approach to philanthropy reflected traditional American values – giving generously but often without publicity.
He was a significant supporter of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, which established a new scholarship fund for the children of Navy service members.
His success story starkly contrasts with today’s entitled generation of business leaders. He built FedEx through hard work, innovation, and risk-taking, not government handouts or DEI initiatives.
His company created hundreds of thousands of jobs for hardworking Americans, revolutionizing how business is conducted worldwide.
When many business leaders caved to left-wing pressure campaigns, Smith remained focused on excellence and service.
His legacy is not just about packages delivered—the American values of freedom, opportunity, and entrepreneurship made his success possible.
