The rodeo world woke up to heartbreaking news on April 30, 2025, when the Roy Cooper rodeo legend, known as the “Super Looper,” passed away at 69 in a devastating house fire in Decatur, Texas. The eight-time world champion, whose name is synonymous with calf roping excellence, left behind a legacy that reshaped the sport and inspired generations. As tributes pour in from fans, fellow cowboys, and rodeo organizations, we dive into the life, achievements, and enduring impact of this iconic figure, whose loss has left a void in the arena and beyond.
The Roy Cooper Rodeo Legend: A Game-Changer in Calf Roping
Born on November 13, 1955, in New Mexico, Roy Cooper didn’t just ride into the rodeo scene—he revolutionized it. Starting his career in 1976, he earned the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) Rookie of the Year title and qualified for his first National Finals Rodeo (NFR). That was only the beginning. Cooper’s unmatched skill in tie-down calf roping earned him the nickname “Super Looper,” a title he humbly downplayed, saying, “I’m just Roy,” in a February 2025 podcast. His calm demeanor and fierce talent led to eight world championships, including six in tie-down roping, one in steer roping, and the coveted 1983 All-Around Cowboy crown.
| Roy Cooper’s Major Achievements |
|---|
| 8 World Championships (6 tie-down, 1 steer, 1 all-around) |
| PRCA Rookie of the Year (1976) |
| 20 NFR Qualifications |
| 1983 Triple Crown Winner |
| Oklahoma Sports Hall of Famer |
His work ethic, paired with a lineage of rodeo blood—his father, Dale “Tuffy” Cooper, was a champion roper—made him a force. Cooper’s innovative techniques transformed calf roping, setting a standard that modern cowboys still chase.
A Tragic End to the Roy Cooper Rodeo Story
The fire that claimed Cooper’s life on April 29, 2025, engulfed his one-story Decatur home, leaving the rodeo community in shock. His son, Tuf Cooper, a fellow rodeo star, shared an emotional statement on Facebook: “We’re all in shock and at a loss for words from this tragedy.” While local authorities, including Wise County EMS director Randall Preuinger, have yet to confirm the cause of death, multiple reports point to the blaze as the culprit. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and Texas High School Rodeo Association mourned his loss, with the latter calling him “a legend in life.” Social media echoed this grief, with fans likening him to the “Michael Jordan of calf roping.”
Just weeks before, Cooper spoke on the Let’s Freakin Rodeo podcast about his love for his grandkids and a vow to spend more time with them. The heartbreaking irony of his words now resonates deeply, reminding us how fleeting life can be.
Beyond the Arena: Cooper’s Lasting Impact
Roy Cooper’s influence stretched far beyond the dirt of the rodeo arena. He lived in Durant, Oklahoma, for 12 years, where he honed his craft and joined the Southeastern Oklahoma State University rodeo team. His success there, including 13 trips to the National Finals Steer Roping, cemented his status as a hometown hero. Cooper’s humility shone through in every interaction. One fan recalled on X how he and George Strait stopped by a Dairy Queen in Texas, leaving a teenage worker starstruck by their down-to-earth charm.
Cooper’s legacy lives on through his family. His son Tuf continues to compete, carrying the Cooper name into new generations. Rodeo organizations, like the San Antonio Rodeo, which named him their 1995 Calf Roping Champion, vowed to honor his memory. “He inspired so many with his strength, grit, and heart,” the Texas High School Rodeo Association wrote, capturing the sentiment of a grieving community.
Why Roy Cooper Rodeo Memories Matter Today
In a world of fleeting fame, Roy Cooper’s story endures because it’s rooted in authenticity. He wasn’t chasing headlines; he was chasing perfection in a sport that demands grit and grace. His death comes at a time when rodeo faces its own challenges—recent tragedies, like the loss of 24-year-old bull rider Dylan Grant in Texas, highlight the sport’s risks. Yet, Cooper’s life reminds us why cowboys keep climbing into the saddle: it’s about legacy, not just trophies.
As we reflect on his contributions, consider this—Cooper qualified for the NFR 20 times, a feat few can match. His techniques are still taught in rodeo schools, and his name is etched in the ProRodeo Hall of Fame. For fans, his loss feels personal, like losing a friend you never met but always admired. Posts on X capture this, with one user writing, “Roy was the cowboy we all wanted to be.”
Looking Forward: Honoring a Legend
The rodeo community will undoubtedly find ways to celebrate Roy Cooper’s life. From memorial events to scholarships in his name, his spirit will ride on. For now, fans can honor him by sharing stories, watching old NFR footage, or supporting local rodeos where his influence lingers. His death, though tragic, is a call to cherish the legends we still have and to keep the cowboy way alive.
Roy Cooper didn’t just rope calves; he roped hearts. His journey from a New Mexico kid to a rodeo icon proves that true greatness lies in doing what you love with all you’ve got. As the sun sets on his remarkable life, let’s tip our hats to the Super Looper, a man who showed us how to live boldly and love deeply. Rest in peace, cowboy—your dues are paid.