(Image: Family)
A “gentle” and “kind” York man died the day after he was released from hospital, an inquest has heard.
Roy Horsley, 76, of Huntington, died at home on January 11.
The retired financial advisor died from an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), coroner Jonathan Leach said when opening Mr Horsley’s inquest. AAA is a swelling in the aorta, the artery that carries blood from the heart to the abdomen, according to the NHS.
Mr Leach said Mr Horsley had attended York Hospital’s urgent care unit on January 10 and was found dead at home the following day.
The coroner adjourned the hearing for a full inquest to take place.
A spokesperson for Mr Horsley’s family said his death came as a “great shock to all those who knew and loved him”.
“He is universally described as a gentle, thoughtful, kind man who would go out of his way to help anyone,” they said.
“Originally from Leeds, Roy made many friends when he put down roots in York.
“On retiring he joined various social groups to keep himself physically and mentally active.
“He helped establish an allotment group putting in many hours and giving away lots of vegetables.
“Singing was a personal passion of Roy's and his favourite 'turn' was performing as Elvis. This came as a surprise to those who knew him as a quiet, unassuming gentleman.
“At his walking group he unexpectedly found love late in life, marrying Christine in 2017. Roy was devoted to Christine and cared for her as dementia gradually took her from him.
“Over 50 people attended Roy's 'celebration of life' event to honour and exchange fond memories of Roy.
“His favourite Elvis showman performed a special final tribute.
"He is sadly missed but will never be forgotten."