Frederick Smith net worth: Here's how much late FedEx founder earned in his career

FedEx founder Frederick Wallace Smith died on Saturday, June 21, aged 80.

Published on: Jun 22, 2025, 10:33:35 IST

By Sumanti Sen

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FedEx founder Frederick Wallace Smith reportedly died on Saturday, June 21, aged 80. Smith was known for his long career, having wielded considerable influence in both the business and political realms. He notably forged close ties with presidents and presidential candidates, including George W. Bush and John McCain, as well as members of US Congress, while he advocated for minimal trade barriers.

Frederick Smith net worth: Here's how much late FedEx founder earned in his career (FedEx)

Frederick Smith's net worth

Smith, an American CEO and entrepreneur, had a net worth of $6 billion, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Considered one of the most successful transportation entrepreneurs in the world, Smith founded Federal Express with his $4 million inheritance (worth around $23 million today) in 1971, the outlet reported. He later raised $91 million in venture capital. The business serviced 25 US cities with fourteen jets by 1973.

Smith earned a total compensation of $10.4 million while he was CEO in 2008, including a base salary of $1.4 million, a cash bonus of $2.7 million, and options granted of $5.5 million. He earned over $7.7 million in salary back in 2009, Smith stepped down as CEO in March 2022 and became executive chairman. Raj Subramaniam became his successor.

Smith, the co-owner of the NFL's Washington Commanders, also worked on the board for companies such as the Mayo Foundation and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. He was inducted into the Aviation Hall of Fame. He was reportedly offered a job as US Defense Secretary after Bush’s election, but he declined.

After Smith’s death, Subramaniam said in a message sent to FedEx team members, according to Commercial Appeal, "Fred was more than just the pioneer of an industry and the founder of our great company. He was the heart and soul of FedEx – its PSP culture, values, integrity, and spirit. He was a mentor to many and a source of inspiration to all. He was also a proud father, grandfather, husband, Marine, and friend; please keep the entire Smith family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sumanti Sen
Sumanti Sen covers everything that’s happening in the US, from politics to entertainment, but her expertise lies in covering crime news. She has comprehensively chronicled the Idaho student murders, the Laken Riley and Iryna Zarutska cases, and the killing of Charlie Kirk, among other incidents. Over the years, she has interviewed several victims/families of victims of crimes seeking justice. She digs up stories that might otherwise remain unheard, and does her bit to ensure that victims and survivors’ voices are heard. Sumanti’s many years of experience also include interviews with Hamas attack survivors and mental health experts, among others. Her coverage of the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel and interviews with survivors of the tragedy, coupled with her other works including the Titan submersible coverage, earned her the Digi Journo of the Quarter award during her first year at Hindustan Times. Sumanti actively tracks missing person cases in the United States, and peruses Reddit and other social media platforms to bring to light cases that frequently elude public attention. She has extensively covered the disappearances of Nancy Guthrie, Thomas Medlin, Beau Mann, and Sudiksha Konanki, among others. When not at work, you will either find her with her novels, or with her beloved rescue pooches.Read More

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