FedEx Founder and Parcel Industry Pioneer Dead at 80

Fred Smith’s company generates $88B in revenue after starting as an air-ground network with handful of aircraft.

Eric Kulisch

Monday, June 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM ET

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Edited By:

Travis Tingle

A Fedex 767 in Las Vegas [Credit: AirlineGeeks/ William Derrickson]

Key Takeaways:

Fred Smith, the founder of FedEx Express Corp., passed away at 80, leaving behind a legacy as the pioneer who revolutionized the parcel delivery business through overnight air cargo service.
His vision, originating from a Yale term paper, led to the creation of an $87.7 billion global enterprise and the world's largest air cargo fleet, profoundly impacting the U.S. economy and international trade.
Smith displayed immense determination, using his personal inheritance and even gambling to sustain FedEx in its early, challenging years.
He is remembered not only for his business acumen but also as the "heart and soul" of FedEx, a mentor, and an inspirational figure, earning him recognition in the Aviation and Business Halls of Fame.

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Fred Smith, who founded FedEx Express Corp. 54 years ago and revolutionized the parcel delivery business by using aircraft for overnight delivery, died Saturday, the company said on its website. He was 80.

“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—its people-service-profit culture, values, integrity, and spirit,” said CEO Raj Subramaniam in a message to FedEx employees. “He was a mentor to many and a source of inspiration to all. He was also a proud father, grandfather, husband, Marine, and friend. Please keep the entire Smith family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”