Standing stage left with nearly 5,000 people peering down at them, the members of Beg To Differ took a deep breath and began the hymn, “O Love That Will Not Let Me Go.” As the final chorus rang out, the crowd paused briefly before erupting into cheers.
On August 11, which would have been his 81st birthday, thousands of people gathered at the FedEx Forum for a celebration of famous Memphian Fred Smith ’62.
MUS graduate and founder of FedEx, one of the biggest shipping companies in the world, Smith dedicated his life to serving both the Memphis community and millions of others; his influence is still felt far beyond his passing on June 21 of this year. His celebration of life featured notable speakers and musicians such as Senator Marsha Blackburn and the Memphis Symphony Orchestra, along with stories from friends and colleagues of Smith that emphasized his kindness and generosity.
“I was just honored to be asked,” said Matt Tutor ’91, concerning Beg To Differ’s performance at Smith’s celebration of life. Senior Trey Urcavich, a veteran member of the ensemble, described the experience with enthusiasm and was overjoyed to contribute to such an important event. “It was obvious that [Smith] cared a lot about the community and the school and it was clear that he wanted to spread his opportunities to people.”
Headmaster Pete Sanders reflected on how Fred Smith’s story was intertwined with that of MUS. “I have to say it was really something to hear MUS punctuate throughout. Whether it was Beg To Differ singing… the pictures of Mr. Smith in his MUS basketball jersey, Gavin McKay’s ’21 speech, or a number of other times where MUS was mentioned.” Sanders also spoke highly about Smith’s influence. “Can you imagine what Memphis would be without him at FedEx?”
Tutor, lead instructor of the ensemble, was dismayed to have had to miss it. “I was really heartbroken. I was in a situation where I was going to be in New York and there was no way around it.” He thanked Math Instructor Chris Fiano for stepping in and conducting the group at the event. “It was a beautiful thing. I have seen recordings. Everyone that I have talked to just loved it, so [Beg to Differ] crushed it. [They] did a beautiful job.”
Whether by organizing humanitarian efforts, funding a bigger stadium for the Memphis Tigers, or just making someone smile, Smith left an indelible mark on this earth and the city of Memphis. As Beg To Differ stepped off the stage at the conclusion of their performance, the crowd applauded not just for their performance, but also for one of the most influential Memphians to ever live.
