FedEx Founder Fred Smith, ‘Heart and Soul’ of the Company, Dies at 80

Logistics pioneer remembered for hub‑and‑spoke innovation

23 June 2025 · 01:52 UTC

Frederick W.

“Fred” Smith, the visionary founder of FedEx who pioneered the overnight delivery model and served as executive chairman until his passing at age 80, has died, leaving behind a legacy that transformed global logistics.