

Venicia Anis Tanus Selfani, lovingly known as Atata, Mama Venicia, Mami, Señora, Suegrita, Abuela, Abuelita Venicia, Vanu, Vanusa, or as she most loved, muñequita libanesa, passed away at the age of 86 in Weston, Florida.
Venicia was a woman of remarkable strength, independence, determination, and resilience. She lived her life rooted in love, always putting her family first and serving as a devoted caretaker to those around her. She was incredibly proud of her family, and her joy was most evident when she was surrounded by those she loved. Her presence was a steady source of comfort, wisdom, and resilience for everyone who knew her.
She took great pride in her Lebanese heritage and expressed that love most vividly through her cooking. Venicia was happiest in the kitchen, preparing beloved dishes like kibbeh and hummus for her family. Nothing brought her more joy than having her loved ones gathered together, sharing meals, laughter, and time in each other’s presence. She had a playful spirit, often breaking into Arabic in the middle of conversations and laughing wholeheartedly at any joke told.
Venicia was known for her beautiful smile and the way she laughed wholeheartedly, filling those around her with joy. She loved her jewelry and especially the color red, which reminded her of her mother and held special meaning in her heart. She also had a humorous and practical side, she loved to save her money and would jokingly go out without a purse so she wouldn’t have to spend any, a small but memorable reflection of her personality that her family will always cherish.
Her daily routines reflected her simple but meaningful joys, starting her mornings with a cup of coffee, watching the news, and taking long walks. Above all, her faith was central to her life. As a devoted Christian, she gave her life to the Lord and carried that faith with quiet strength and grace.
Venicia was the beloved daughter of Anis Selfani and Anllel Tanus-Selfani and one of ten children. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Jose Tanus, Namtala Tanus, Miguel Tanus, Nadia Tanus, and Suad Ansaldo. She is survived by her siblings, Elias Tanus, Manuel Tanus, Charbel Tanus, and Cleopatra Cervantes.
She is also survived by her children, Felix Torres and his wife, Ana Torres; Nadia Alvarado and her husband, Carlos Alvarado; Carlos Torres and his wife, Elvia Torres; and Dolores Garcia. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Xavier Egas, Suad Cardenas, Adriana Bovee, Nahon Torres, Karim Torres, Anisa Watson, Jaelle Alvarado, Saleth Alvarado, and Mateo Alvarado; and her treasured great-grandchildren, Ayden Egas, Priscila Egas, Selah Torres-Moyano, Adriela Cardenas, and Leo Torres.
Venicia’s legacy is one of love, faith, laughter, resilience, and family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.
A Visitation will be held at Forest Lawn Funeral Home, 2401 Southwest 64th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33317, US, on May 1, 2026, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, followed by a Funeral Service.
A Committal Service will take place at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens,
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