Rodeo legend Roy Cooper died in a fire at his home near Decatur the night of Tuesday, April 29, 2025. He was 69. Cooper family via Facebook

Rodeo legend Roy Cooper, known as “Super Looper” for his calf roping skills, has died, according to his family.

Cooper, 69, was found dead after his home near Decatur was destroyed in a fire Tuesday, April 29, as reported by the Wise County Messenger. Someone reported the fire shortly after 7 p.m.

Cooper’s son, Tuf Cooper, confirmed his father’s death in a post on social media.

“We’re all in shock and at a loss for words from this tragedy at the moment,” Tuf Cooper said in a Facebook post.

Officials at the Texas High School Rodeo Association said they were heartbroken by the news.

“Roy wasn’t just a legend in the arena—he was a legend in life,” the rodeo association said on Facebook. “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 began his rodeo career in 1976 and went on to win eight World Champion titles.

This story was originally published April 30, 2025 at 9:23 AM.