MEMPHIS, Tenn. — FedEx founder Fred Smith was honored with a floor speech in the House of Representatives on Tuesday

Rep. David Kustoff (R-Memphis) honored Smith, who died Saturday at the age of 80, by highlighting his many contributions to Memphis and the logistics industry.

“To many people, Fred Smith will likely be remembered as a titan of industry and the founder of FedEx,” said Kustoff. “To my constituents, he will be remembered as a champion for the City of Memphis. Personally, I will remember Fred Smith as a man who loved his country and devoted his life to the American dream.”

The Memphis Republican also talked about Smith’s work to bring professional sports to Memphis, including the arrival of the NBA’s Memphis Grizzlies in 2001. He also talked about Smith’s contribution to collegiate sports in the city.

“Two years ago, when the University of Memphis was ambitiously pursuing stadium upgrades for the football team, Fred Smith and his family committed $50 million to help the school achieve its financial goals,” said Kustoff.

Rep. Kustoff also highlighted Smith’s work beyond Memphis, including his key role in creating the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.

“Fred would become a major factor in getting that memorial constructed,” said Kustoff. “It would cost a lot of money to raise and build such a monument, but as a result of that movie (Castaway), Fred turned to his friend, Tom Hanks, for his help and public support to help raise funds for the memorial.”