Philip Raymond Werdell

Philip Raymond Werdell, 82, of Sarasota, Florida passed away on September 9, 2023, after a brief illness. Phil was born on April 2, 1941, to Raymond and Dorothy Werdell (both deceased). Phil graduated from Yale University in 1963 with a degree in American Studies. He went on to receive his Master’s degree from Beacon College in Human Service and Higher Education in 1980 and post-grad work in Eating Disorders at the University of South Florida and post-grad work in adult education at Columbia University. Phil is survived by his wife Mary Foushi, two adult daughters, Maureen Freehill and Sheila Freehill-Hirt, a granddaughter Lily Hirt, and his former wife Donna Vanderheiden-Werdell. Phil is also survived by his beloved dog Ellie.

Phil was a jazz pianist, avid traveler, history buff, social activist, educator, food addiction therapist, author, lecturer, mentor, and guide. Phil founded ACORN Food Dependency Recovery Services (currently SHiFT Recovery by Acorn) and was one of the visionary co-founders of the Food Addiction Institute. Phil's unwavering commitment and tireless efforts revolutionized the food addiction recovery landscape worldwide.

A Celebration of Phil’s Life will occur on Sunday, November 19th in Sarasota, Florida and via live streaming. Please go to https://www.celebratingphil.com/ for further information and updates. You may also share a memory, post a photo, or donate in Phil’s memory on the website.