Total Pro Sports
Fred Smith, the visionary behind FedEx and father of NFL coach Arthur Smith, has died at the age of 80, according to multiple reports. The Memphis-born business titan not only reshaped global logistics but also left a deep imprint on the lives of millions through his innovation and philanthropy.
Smith launched FedEx in 1973 with a fearless vision that became a global shipping giant. Over the decades, he grew the company into a multibillion-dollar force in transportation and e-commerce. Forbes estimated his net worth at $5.3 billion at the time of his passing. While the exact cause of death has not been released, his impact on both business and community remains unmistakable.
Smith’s influence reached far beyond boardrooms and balance sheets. A proud Marine Corps veteran, he committed millions to support military families, particularly through the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. His leadership at FedEx helped thousands build careers, and he remained actively involved with the company until 2022, when he stepped down as CEO but stayed on as executive chairman.
He also spent nearly two decades as a minority owner of the Washington Commanders, further cementing his ties to American sports. His son, Arthur Smith, followed a different path, rising through the NFL ranks. Arthur, now the offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers, previously served as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons.
Sad news: #Steelers coach Arthur Smith’s father Frederick W. Smith has passed away at 80 years old.
Smith was the founder & chairman of FedEx Corporation.
Fred donated hundreds of millions of dollars in his life to charity, including $65 million to the Marine Corps Scholarship. pic.twitter.com/9j2sIQDud8
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) June 22, 2025
News of Fred Smith’s passing prompted reactions from both political leaders and the sports world. Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn honored him with a statement that captured his far-reaching influence. “His leadership and innovation transformed global commerce,” she said. “His legacy will endure not only through the company he built but through the countless lives he touched.”
Former Memphis mayor Jim Strickland called him “the most significant Memphian in history” and praised the opportunities he created for generations in the city.
NFL Fans in Pittsburgh extended their condolences to Arthur Smith after hearing the news. One user posted on X, “Have to feel for Arthur tonight. Losing a parent is rough. RIP Mr Smith.”
Have to feel for Arthur tonight. Losing a parent is rough. RIP Mr Smith.
— Yinzergear (@YinzerGear) June 22, 2025
Another added, “Prayers to Arthur Smith and his family.”
Prayers to Arthur Smith and his family https://t.co/6hGD4teao8
— Eli Krebs (@TheRantEli) June 22, 2025
Fred Smith’s life wasn’t just a business success story but a relentless pursuit of purpose. He didn’t just build a global shipping giant; he reshaped the way the world moves.
Also Read: Falcons Coach Arthur Smith Delivered Bizarre Quote After 27-26 Loss to Saints
