Frederick W. Smith, the trailblazing founder of FedEx and a transformative figure in professional golf, passed away on Saturday at age 80, the company announced.
Smith, a Marine Corps veteran who revolutionized global logistics, left an indelible mark on the PGA Tour through FedEx’s sponsorship of the FedExCup, launched in 2007, and the FedEx St. Jude Championship.
Smith’s vision for FedEx, born from a Yale term paper, reshaped commerce and fueled the PGA Tour’s growth.
Since 1986, FedEx has sponsored the Memphis-area tournament, evolving into a FedExCup Playoffs event, with the season-long points race redefining the Tour’s competitive landscape.
“Fred and his company made significant contributions to the growth and popularity of PGA Tour golf,” said Commissioner Jay Monahan, noting FedEx’s nearly 40-year partnership.
Tributes poured in, with PGA Tour pro Billy Horschel posting on X, “As a PGA Tour player, I can’t thank Fred and FedEx enough for their unwavering commitment.”
Smith’s humility shone through anecdotes of him mingling with volunteers at tournaments, and his philanthropy, including $50 million to the University of Memphis, bolstered golf and community initiatives.
Smith, who stepped down as FedEx CEO in 2022 but remained executive chairman, is survived by his wife, nine children, and grandchildren. His legacy, from the FedExCup to Memphis’s economic boom, will endure for generations.
