India, June 22 -- Frederick W Smith, the founder of FedEx Corporation, died on Saturday, WREG reported, citing sources. He was 80 years old. Several politicians and close friends of Smith posted tributes on social media, recalling the billionaire as an 'innovator and leader'.

Smith was born in Marks, Mississippi, in 1944. He earned his degree from Yale before joining the United States Marine Corps. The 80-year-old started FedEx operations in 1973. Fred Smith served as the CEO of the company until 2022. He stepped down and became executive chairman.

As chairman, he led 'board governance, as well as issues of global importance, including sustainability, innovation, and public policy', according to FedEx.

Senator Brent Taylor called Smith...