RODEO star Roy Cooper has reportedly died in a house fire.
Tributes are pouring in for the hall of famer, 69, who was known as Super Looper.
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Rodeo legend Roy Cooper has diedCredit: Youtube
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Tributes have poured in for the calf roperCredit: Facebook
Officials at the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association have said they’re mourning Cooper’s death.
“It is with great sadness that our family shares the passing of our Dad, The Super Looper, Roy Cooper,” a statement shared on his son’s Tuf Cooper’s Facebook page, said.
“We’re all in shock and at a loss for words from this tragedy at the moment.”
Local media has reported that a fire broke out at the rodeo’s star property in Decatur, Texas, on Tuesday night.
Flames engulfed his one story home.
Randall Preuinger, the Wise County EMS director, refused to confirm any details, but rodeo groups on social media have been paying tribute to Cooper.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cooper family after the tragic accident that took place tonight,” an Oklahoma rodeo group said.
“The rodeo world will forever mourn the loss of Roy.”
Cooper, from New Mexico, was described as a “legend in life” by a local Texas rodeo organization.
And, mourners online described him the Michael Jordan of calf roping.
“Roy wasn’t just a legend in the arena—he was a legend in life,” they said in a post.
“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..”
Cooper had a love for rodeo and his family.
“His love for rodeo, family, and friends ran deep, and he carried that love with quiet pride and unmatched character,” they said.
“Our hearts are broken. The world feels a little dimmer without his presence in it.”
Andra Estes Beatty, a 2020 Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame inductee, also paid tribute to the calf roper.
“Heartbroken to hear of the passing of Roy Cooper, an eight-time world champion calf roper and a true legend in the arena,” she said.
“He inspired generations of cowboys and his legacy lives on.
“Praying for comfort and peace for his family during this time.”
Cooper won the PRCA Rookie of the Year award in 1976.
“There’s only one rookie, so it’s do or die your very first year,” he told The Cowboy Channel in 2023.
“The rookies a big deal, it’s a big thing,” he added.
“I didn’t realize how big it was until later then you look at the rookie of the year champions that have won it like Phil Lyne, Robert Blandford, look at them guys that won it, the great ones.
“The great ones went on to be World Champions.”
Phil Lyne won all-around cowboy world titles and tie-down accolades during his career.
Meanwhile, Blandford is part of the Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame.
Cooper ended up winning eight world championships, including an all-around title in 1983, during his illustrious career.
He was known as Super Looper, but he seemed to downplay being given the nickname.
“I don’t know if I’m no Super Looper, I’m just Roy,” he told The Let’s Freakin Rodeo podcast in February.
During his appearance on the show, he reflected on his career, and vowed never to waste a chance to pass up an opportunity.
He said he didn’t want to look back on his lifetime and have regrets.
Cooper also reflected on his health battles and revealed his motivation was spending time with family.
“You wanna see your grandkids,” he said.
Cooper picked up six tie-down roping championships, and a steer roping championship.
In 1983, he won a rare Rodeo Triple Crown, picking up three gold buckles.
He was also the first $2 million cowboy in the history of Pro Rodeo.
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Cooper was an 8-time world championCredit: YouTube
