Frederick Smith, the visionary founder of FedEx Corp., has passed away at the age of 79, marking the end of an era for the global logistics industry. Smith, who launched Federal Express in 1973 with just 14 planes and 389 employees, transformed a modest delivery operation into a multibillion-dollar global enterprise. His groundbreaking idea of an overnight delivery network revolutionized shipping and helped shape modern global trade. Reports indicate that Smith died of a heart attack on Saturday evening, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of innovation and leadership.
At the time of his passing, Smith was serving as FedEx’s executive chairman, overseeing corporate governance and focusing on major global issues such as sustainability, innovation, and public policy. His leadership extended far beyond corporate growth—he became a respected figure in global business circles and a mentor to countless leaders within FedEx. Company CEO Raj Subramaniam described him as a guiding force who inspired generations of employees and helped shape FedEx into the global powerhouse it is today.
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Smith’s journey from a young entrepreneur to the leader of an $87.7 billion logistics giant was marked by resilience and foresight. A former U.S. Marine who served in Vietnam, Smith applied military precision and strategy to building his business. His first delivery operation involved transporting just 186 packages to 25 cities from Memphis, Tennessee. Today, FedEx operates 705 aircraft, more than 200,000 vehicles, and 5,000 facilities, handling around 17 million shipments daily across more than 220 countries and territories.
Stepping down as CEO in 2022, Smith handed the leadership to Raj Subramaniam, but he remained actively involved in shaping the company’s long-term vision. His passing has left the FedEx community in mourning, with employees and admirers around the world paying tribute to his monumental contributions. Smith’s influence on the logistics industry remains unparalleled, and his legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur will continue to inspire future generations.
