Ex-Washington NFL Team Owner Fred Smith Married Diane Following Divorce From Linda Black Grisham!

Tragedy struck in 2005 when Fred Smith and his first wife Linda, along with their daughter Windland, passed away.

June 23, 2026

Last update by Manoj Gadtaula on June 23, 2026

Fred Smith, FedEx founder, experienced both personal joy and sorrow through his marriages to Linda Black Grisham and Diane Smith.

Linda, his high-school partner, shared a deep bond with Fred from their early days in Memphis, Tennessee, before their union dissolved after eight years.

Both Fred and Linda graduated from Yale, embarking on separate paths—one in business, the other in public life—before meeting again in Hawaii for their wedding.

Their daughter Windland, born in 1970, pursued photography after studying drama at Duke University, earning accolades including the Windland Smith Rice Award.

Windland’s promising career was cut short by Long QT syndrome Type 2 at age 35, leaving a lasting impact on her family.

Richard W. Smith, their second child, rose through FedEx ranks to become its president and CEO, continuing the family’s legacy in corporate leadership.

Despite initial stability, Fred and Diane’s marriage faced challenges, culminating in a divorce in 1977 after nearly a decade together.

Fred Smith and Diane Maintained a 19-Year Marriage After Separation

Following his divorce from Linda, Fred began a long-term relationship that eventually led to marriage in 2006, marking a new chapter after decades of personal evolution.

The couple’s partnership endured until Fred’s passing in June 2026, producing eight children who each carved distinct paths.

Among them, Arthur Smith emerged as a prominent figure in sports, transitioning from Atlanta Falcons head coach to Pittsburgh Steelers offensive coordinator.

Molly Smith carved her own niche in film production through Black Label Media, contributing to major cinematic projects over the years.

Rachel Smith followed creative footsteps, while Samantha Atkinson distinguished herself in government affairs at FedEx.

Youngest son Frederick "Cannon" Smith embraced diverse talents, from football to acting, before launching a successful spirits venture.