News Summary
The city of Memphis is in mourning following the passing of Fred Smith, founder of FedEx, whose contributions reshaped the logistics industry and the local community. Smithโs legacy is celebrated for establishing FedEx as a global entity and for his philanthropic efforts in education. Local leaders recognize his significant impact on the economy and his role in creating opportunities for many Memphians. Discussions are already underway to honor his memory, possibly by renaming the Memphis International Airport.
Memphis is grieving the loss of Fred Smith, the esteemed founder and executive chairman of FedEx, who passed away on June 21, 2025, at the age of 80. A prominent figure in both the business world and the Memphis community, Smith’s contributions are significant, both nationally and locally, marking an era that transformed FedEx into a global logistics giant.
Born in Marks, Mississippi, in 1944, Smith graduated from Yale University in 1966 before serving in the United States Marine Corps for four years. He launched the operations of FedEx in 1973, which has since become headquartered in Memphis. The corporation operates several hubs in the city, most notably the FedEx World Hub located at the airport. Under Smith’s guidance, FedEx evolved into a multi-billion-dollar business, providing services to over 200 countries worldwide.
Smith served as CEO of FedEx until 2022, after which he transitioned to the role of executive chairman, focusing on global issues such as sustainability and public policy. His leadership had an immense impact on the global logistics industry and created numerous job opportunities in Memphis, solidifying the cityโs status as a key distribution center.
Former Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland honored Smith as “the most significant Memphian in history,” crediting him with enabling generations of residents to achieve the American dream through his business innovations. Senator Brent Taylor echoed sentiments regarding Smith’s transformative role in logistics, which greatly benefited the workforce in Memphis and beyond. The Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority recognized Smith as both an “innovator” and a “cornerstone of the Memphis community,” reflecting his deep ties to the area.
In addition to his business achievements, Smithโs legacy includes substantial investments in education and community projects, especially linked to the University of Memphis. He established the Learning inspired by FedEx (LiFE) program, which supported employees in acquiring college degrees from the university. Smith was also active in philanthropy, providing scholarships and engaging in community initiatives, showcasing his commitment to giving back.
Current Memphis Mayor Paul Young emphasized that Smithโs innovative spirit fundamentally altered logistics and transportation. Greater Memphis Chamber President Ted Townsend remarked on Smithโs role in transforming Memphis into a global hotspot for logistics, while Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris referred to Smith’s passing as representing “an incalculable loss” for both Memphis and the world at large.
The Memphis NAACP acknowledged Smith as an “astute businessman” and a devoted family man, honoring his ongoing partnership with their organization. In recognition of his vast contributions, discussions are underway among airport authorities to rename Memphis International Airport in honor of Fred Smith. Jack Sammons, vice chair of the airport authority, plans to propose this name change during an upcoming board meeting, reflecting Smith’s expressed wishes from 1993.
Smith is widely remembered for his pivotal role in establishing Memphis as “America’s Distribution Center.” His influence stretched far beyond the business sphere; he created a legacy that will be felt for generations to come, making a lasting imprint both inside and outside of FedEx.
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Additional Resources
- Commercial Appeal
- Wikipedia: Fred Smith
- WREG
- Google Search: Fred Smith FedEx
- Daily Memphian
- Google Scholar: Fred Smith FedEx
- Action News 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fred Smith
- ABC News
- Google News: Fred Smith
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
