Selma Berlant

Selma Klein, lovingly known by many as “Sue Kenny,” passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the age of 92. Her long and beautiful life was defined by creativity, kindness, resilience, and a deep love for her family and friends.

Selma was born Selma Tepper on June 25, 1933, in New York to her parents, Julie and Joseph Tepper. Growing up in New York, Selma quickly developed a passion for the arts and for connecting with people. From a young age she displayed remarkable talent and enthusiasm, qualities that would remain central to her character throughout her life.

She went on to live a vibrant and multifaceted life filled with creativity and expression. Selma was a popular and talented singer who brought joy to those who heard her perform. Her artistic gifts extended far beyond music. She was an accomplished artist whose talents spanned oil and watercolor painting, clay sculpting, and working with marble and bronze. Her creations reflected both her imagination and her deep appreciation for beauty and culture.

Selma also found great joy in the culinary arts. Cooking was one of her many passions, and her kitchen was often the heart of the home, filled with warmth, laughter, and the aromas of lovingly prepared meals. She took pride in sharing her knowledge, creativity, and traditions with her family, mentoring and guiding her children throughout their lives.

Selma shared many wonderful adventures with her beloved husband Arnold. Together they explored the world, embarking on numerous world cruises and immersing themselves in new cultures and experiences. One of their most cherished chapters was living in Italy, where Selma devoted time to studying the Italian language and expanding her knowledge of culinary arts. These travels enriched her life and deepened her appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the world.

Those who knew Selma will remember her for her extraordinary kindness and generosity of spirit. She had a natural warmth that made people feel welcome and valued. Her unyielding kindness, compassion, and moral support touched everyone fortunate enough to cross her path. She believed deeply in helping others, offering encouragement, wisdom, and comfort whenever it was needed.Selma was also a devoted partner throughout her life, sharing meaningful chapters with her husbands Kenneth, Arnold, and Norman. She valued love, companionship, and loyalty, and she carried these values into every relationship she nurtured.

Above all, Selma’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She was a loving and devoted mother to her three sons, Richard, Mark, and Ronald. She cherished the time spent with her children and took immense pride in watching their lives unfold.

Her love expanded even further with the arrival of her grandchildren—Ashley, Raquel, Kato, Caleb, Tara, and Jordan—each of whom brought her tremendous joy. She delighted in being part of their lives, celebrating their accomplishments and sharing her wisdom and affection. Selma was also blessed with eight great-grandsons, who added another generation of love and laughter to her family.

Selma is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, all of whom will carry forward the memories, lessons, and love she gave so freely.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to all those who attended the funeral and came together to honor Selma’s remarkable life. Today we lay Selma to rest, allowing her to find peace while we celebrate the extraordinary life she lived—a life rich with creativity, adventure, generosity, and love.

Though she is no longer with us, Selma’s spirit lives on through the many lives she touched, the art she created, the stories she shared, and the family she cherished so deeply. Her legacy is one of compassion, passion for life, and unwavering devotion to those she loved.

Selma will be deeply missed and forever remembered.