Memphis, TN, September 19, 2025
News Summary
Les Smith, a beloved former FOX13 reporter, has passed away at 75 after a battle with lung cancer. His extensive career spanned nearly 40 years, during which he reported over 8,000 stories. Les was known for his emotional storytelling and had a profound impact on the Memphis journalism landscape. His family and colleagues remember him as a dedicated and compassionate journalist. The community is reflecting on the legacy he leaves behind, setting a benchmark for future journalists in the area.
Memphis, TN – Les Smith, a respected former reporter for FOX13 and a prominent figure in Memphis journalism, passed away at the age of 75 after a courageous battle with lung cancer. His family confirmed his passing on Wednesday, indicating that he had been hospitalized due to his condition and was in “bad shape physically” following a recent trip to Belize.
Les Smith’s journalism career spanned nearly 40 years, during which he covered over 8,000 stories while at FOX13, where he worked from 2001 until his retirement in 2014. Prior to his time at FOX13, he served at Action News 5 from 1983 to 1985 and contributed to all four television stations in Memphis throughout his career.
His son, Jason Smith, remembered his father as โone of the best to ever hold a mic in Memphis,โ reflecting the immense respect and admiration he received from his family and peers alike. Smith was not only known for his storytelling skills but also for capturing the emotional depth of the stories he reported, making a significant impact on the lives of the individuals featured.
The Memphis journalism community is mourning Smith’s passing, recognizing him as one of the great journalists in the area. Colleagues have echoed sentiments of loss and appreciation for his dedication to the craft and the memorable stories he delivered to audiences over the decades.
This news comes at a time when another notable figure in Memphis journalism, longtime News Channel 3 sports videographer Jeff Woods, is also retiring after a remarkable 40-year career at the station. Both men have left a lasting legacy in the media landscape of Memphis, and their contributions are celebrated within the community.
Les Smith’s influence and commitment to journalism will not be forgotten, as his work resonated deeply with both viewers and fellow journalists. His storytelling, characterized by compassion and authenticity, exemplified the best of journalism’s ideals and the important role it plays in society.
About Les Smith’s Career
- Worked a total of nearly 40 years in journalism.
- Joined FOX13 in 2001 and reported more than 8,000 stories until retirement in 2014.
- Also worked at all four television stations in Memphis.
- Previous employment at Action News 5 from 1983 to 1985.
Community Response
The passing of Les Smith has led to widespread mourning in the Memphis community, with many recognizing the significant influence he had on local journalism. His peers and residents remember him as a reporter who had a knack for telling stories with emotional depth.
Looking Forward
In the wake of Smithโs departure, the journalism community in Memphis continues to reflect on the standards of integrity and dedication he embodied. His legacy sets a benchmark for future journalists in the area, demonstrating the importance of authenticity and storytelling in reporting.
FAQ
What was Les Smith’s age at the time of his passing?
Les Smith passed away at the age of 75.
What type of cancer did Les Smith battle?
Les Smith battled lung cancer.
How long did Les Smith work in journalism?
Les Smith worked a total of nearly 40 years in journalism.
How many stories did Les Smith report at FOX13?
Les Smith reported more than 8,000 stories during his time at FOX13.
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Key Features of Les Smith’s Career
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age at Passing | 75 |
| Cancer Battle | Lung Cancer |
| Years in Journalism | Nearly 40 Years |
| Stories Reported at FOX13 | Over 8,000 |
| Previous Employment | All four TV stations in Memphis, including Action News 5 |
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Additional Resources
- FOX13 Memphis
- Wikipedia: Journalism
- Action News 5
- Google Search: Les Smith Memphis
- WREG
- Google Scholar: Les Smith journalism
- Daily Memphian
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Les Smith
- Audacy
- Google News: Les 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.
