It’s with a heavy heart that we report the tragic passing of Roy Cooper, the rodeo legend known as “Super Looper” for his exceptional calf roping skills. At the age of 69, Cooper died after his home near Decatur, Texas was destroyed in a devastating fire on Tuesday, April 29. The fire was reported shortly after 7 p.m., and Cooper was found dead at the scene.
His son, Tuf Cooper, confirmed the heartbreaking news through a post on social media, expressing the family’s shock: “We’re all in shock and at a loss for words from this tragedy at the moment.”
The Texas High School Rodeo Association also shared their sorrow, writing on Facebook: “Roy wasn’t just a legend in the arena—he was a legend in life. He inspired so many with his strength, grit, and heart. Whether you knew him personally or admired him from afar, you knew he was someone special.”
Roy Cooper’s Legendary Career
Cooper’s rodeo career began in 1976, and he was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1979. He was also inducted into the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame, marking his lasting impact on the sport. Over his remarkable career, Cooper competed in 18 National Finals calf roping events and won eight World Champion titles, including a Triple Crown in 1983—one of only 10 cowboys to achieve such a feat.
Cooper’s technique and innovation were groundbreaking. He was one of the first to dismount his horse on the right side when roping a calf, and he was capable of tying a calf in a remarkable eight seconds—a time previously unheard of in the sport.
His career had its humble beginnings, as he recalled in a 2023 Wild Horse Motion Films video. In 1976, the 20-year-old rookie struggled to win any events, but after a rough start, he earned his first big paycheck of $4,300 at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. That win marked the turning point in his career, and by the end of 1976, he was the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Tie-Down World Champion.
A Community’s Loss
Crews from the Decatur Fire Department and Wise County EMS responded to the fire, arriving at the scene to find the house fully engulfed in flames. The Wise County Fire Marshal’s Office is leading the investigation, with the Tarrant County Arson Task Force assisting.
Cooper’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the rodeo world, and he will be deeply missed by fans, friends, and fellow athletes alike. The rodeo community has lost a true pioneer, and our thoughts are with his family during this incredibly difficult time.
Rest in peace, Roy Cooper. Your legacy will live on forever in the hearts of those who knew you and admired your legendary skills.