The rodeo community is mourning the loss of a legend, Roy Cooper, who passed away this week at 69. Known as the “Super Looper,” Cooper was widely regarded as the greatest roper of all time. He tragically died in a house fire on his property in Decatur, Texas.
The news of Cooper’s passing was shared by his son, Tuf Cooper, also a renowned rodeo star, on social media. The family expressed their shock and grief, struggling to find words to describe the tragedy.
Cooper’s illustrious career began in 1976 when he clinched a world championship in his first national finals. Over the course of his career, he won eight titles in total. His exceptional talent and skill led to his induction into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1979, a mere three years after his career began.
Rodeo was in Cooper’s blood. His parents were both ropers, and he grew up in New Mexico, where his mother was born on a ranch. His son, Tuf, continues the family tradition as a third-generation rodeo star.
The rodeo community has been deeply affected by Cooper’s passing. Andra Estes Beatty, an inductee of the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame, expressed her heartbreak over the loss, noting that Cooper’s legacy would continue to inspire future generations of cowboys.
The Texas Department of Agriculture also acknowledged the significant loss to the rodeo community. Commissioner Sid Miller and his wife, Debra, offered their prayers to the Cooper family during this difficult time.
Sean Gleason, CEO of Professional Bull Riding, highlighted Cooper’s iconic status in the rodeo world. He noted that the term “Super Looper” was synonymous with Cooper, and every rodeo fan knew exactly who was being referred to. Cooper made history in 2000 when he became the first roper to earn $2 million in ProRodeo.