An investigation was continuing yesterday (Thursday) to determine how murderer Derek Ive was found hanging in his prison cell.
The 54-year-old was serving a life sentence for murdering his wife Jean Parry, 53, who ran Chalkwell Lodge nursing home in Westcliff.
He was discovered by warders at Chelmsford Prison.
A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We are aware of the incident and an inquiry by the police and prison service is under way.
"A report will go to the coroner's office and there will be an inquest in due course. A date has not yet been fixed."
There were not thought to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding Mr Ive's death, added the police spokesman.
A Prison Service spokesman declined to comment on funeral arrangements.
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