- Smith’s son, Arthur, has held a variety of coaching roles in the NFL
FedEx founder Fred Smith, the billionaire father of NFL coach Arthur Smith, has died at the age of 80 according to multiple reports.
The elder Smith began operating FedEx in 1973, with the company going on to become a multinational force providing transportation, e-commerce and more.
A cause of death has not yet been provided for Smith, who was also a minority owner of the Washington Commanders from 2003 to 2021.
The founder of the Memphis, Tennessee-based business was honored by several politicians following his passing, including Tennessee Sen. Marsha Blackburn.
‘I am deeply saddened by the passing of Fred Smith,’ she said. ‘As the founder of FedEx, his leadership and innovation transformed global commerce, and he will be remembered for his relentless drive, patriotism, and commitment to service.
‘His legacy will endure not only through the company he built but through the countless lives he touched. Praying for his wife, children, and family.’
FedEx founder Fred Smith, the billionaire father of NFL coach Arthur Smith, has died
Arthur was previously the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, and is now the offensive coordinator for the Steelers.
Smith, who was worth $5.3billion at the time of his passing according to Forbes, was also known for his philanthropy work as he donated millions of dollars to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (he served in the Marine Corps for four years before founding FedEx).
The businessman stepped down as the company’s CEO in 2022 (though he continued to serve as executive chairman), and he was hailed as ‘the most significant Memphian in history’ on Saturday by the city’s former mayor Jim Strickland.
‘He benefited our city in every way possible and allowed generations of Memphians to achieve the American dream,’ Strickland continued. ‘God bless Fred Smith. My condolences to the Smith family.’
Arthur, 43, was born in Memphis before ultimately becoming an NFL coach.
He worked for his hometown franchise, the Titans, for nine years as he rose the ranks from defensive quality control coach to offensive coordinator from 2019-20.
He accepted the Falcons’ head coaching job in 2021, and was fired after the 2023 season after posting a 7-10 record for the third consecutive season.
Arthur is currently the Steelers’ offensive coordinator.
And Pittsburgh fans offered some words of support for the coach after they learned of the news.
‘Have to feel for Arthur tonight. Losing a parent is rough. RIP Mr Smith,’ one said on X.
‘Prayers for Arthur Smith,’ another added.
