- Rodeo legend Roy Cooper, known as “Super Looper,” died in a house fire at 69, shocking the rodeo community.
- Cooper won multiple championships, including six PRCA Tie-Down World Championships and a triple crown in 1983.
- Cooper’s legacy continues through his sons and his significant impact on the sport of rodeo
Rodeo legend Roy Cooper died in a house fire at the age of 69. His death shocked the entire rodeo community. Known as “Super Looper,” Cooper became one of the most iconic figures in calf roping and professional rodeo. His sudden passing has left many heartbroken. Authorities found him dead after his home in Decatur, Texas, caught fire. Emergency responders arrived shortly after 7 pm ET, but by the time they reached the scene, flames had fully engulfed the house. Cooper was the only person in the home.
Tributes to a Rodeo Icon
As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from fans, rodeo stars, and organizations. The Texas Department of Agriculture expressed their sorrow and offered prayers for the Cooper family. “The rodeo community mourns a tremendous loss today with the passing of rodeo legend and Super Looper, Roy Cooper,” they wrote. Many people shared personal memories of Cooper. One fan described him as “the Michael Jordan of calf roping.” Others recalled seeing him around town, with one person remembering a special visit when Cooper and country music legend George Strait stopped by the local Dairy Queen.
Rodeo groups from across the country also honored his memory. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cooper family after the tragic accident,” said an Oklahoma rodeo group. “The rodeo world will forever mourn the loss of Roy.” His impact on the sport was clear, and his passing left a void that will be felt for years to come.
Roy Cooper’s Championships and Achievements
Roy Cooper was a champion in every sense of the word. He won the PRCA Tie-Down World Championship six times, in 1976, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, and 1984. In 1983, he achieved a rare triple crown. He was not only the Tie-Down World Champion but also the All-Around World Champion and the Steer Roping World Champion. His skill and dedication set him apart from his peers.
Throughout his career, Cooper proved to be one of the best. His victories earned him a reputation as one of the most dominant forces in rodeo. Cooper’s influence stretched beyond his championships. His work ethic, focus, and commitment to the sport inspired countless other cowboys and cowgirls.
Early Years and Rodeo Beginnings
Roy Cooper was born to a rodeo family. His father, Dale “Tuffy” Cooper, was also a champion roper. Roy followed in his father’s footsteps from a young age. He quickly made a name for himself in the junior rodeo ranks. Roy won several American Junior Rodeo Association championships, including six All-Around cowboy titles. His success in the junior ranks set the stage for his professional career.
Cooper’s rise continued in college rodeo. He attended Southeastern Oklahoma State College, where he became the 1975 NIRA Calf Roping Champion. This win marked the beginning of his path to greatness in the rodeo world. He showed early on that he had the talent and determination to succeed at the highest levels of the sport.
A Lasting Legacy
Roy Cooper’s legacy extends far beyond his championships. He inspired generations of cowboys and cowgirls. His influence on the sport of rodeo cannot be overstated. Cooper leaves behind three sons, Tuf, Clif, and Clint, who continue his legacy in the sport. They will carry forward the lessons and values he passed down to them.
