Photo Credits of Roy Cooper: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum / Old West Museum
Decatur, Texas — The rodeo world is mourning the loss of World Champion Rodeo Cowboy Roy Cooper, who tragically passed away in a residential fire at his home in Decatur, Texas, on April 29, 2025. He was 69 years old. Cooper’s passing marks the end of an era for professional rodeo, where he was revered as one of the most accomplished tie-down ropers in the sport’s history.
The Wise County Fire Marshal’s Office is actively leading the investigation into the cause of the fire, with support from the Tarrant County Arson Task Force, the Wise County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Rangers. Authorities continue working to determine the origin and circumstances surrounding the fire.
Roy Cooper, affectionately known as the “Super Looper,” won eight world championships during his remarkable career, including six in tie-down roping. He was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1979 and remains a towering figure in rodeo history. His passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans, fellow cowboys, and industry leaders.
A memorial service titled “Roy Cooper’s Last Matinee Performance” was held on Monday, May 26, 2025, at the historic Cowtown Coliseum in Fort Worth, Texas. The event drew an emotional crowd of family, friends, and rodeo champions. Country music icon George Strait, a close friend of Cooper’s for over 40 years, delivered a heartfelt eulogy, sharing personal stories and honoring Cooper’s legacy of excellence, humility, and dedication to the sport.
Tanya Tucker performed “High Ridin” Horses,” a song cherished by Cooper, during the memorial service. Her performance added a poignant touch to the celebration of his life.
Reba McEntire contributed a heartfelt video message to the memorial service, honoring Cooper’s Legacy and their shared connection through the rodeo and country music communities.
“Roy was one of my very best friends. I can count those on one hand. He was my hero.” “We shared a lot of good and bad times together. He didn’t hang out with me—I hung out with him.”
George Strait King Of Country Music & Longtime Friend to Roy Cooper
“Boy, did he love his family, and he loved the Lord. If the good Lord chooses me to go to Paradise sometime, where I know Roy is … I’m just gonna say, ‘Give me a Council [saddle] and let’s race.’”
George Strait King Of Country Music & Longtime Friend to Roy Cooper
“Roy was one of the ones they made that saying about, that they broke the mold when they made him. They sure did.”
George Strait King Of Country Music & Longtime Friend to Roy Cooper
Strait’s heartfelt words painted a vivid picture of a deep friendship and paid tribute to a man who left an indelible mark on both the rodeo world and those who knew him personally.
Beyond his arena achievements, Cooper was deeply respected for his mentorship, kindness, and commitment to nurturing the next generation of rodeo talent. His legacy will continue through his sons — Clint Cooper, Tuf Cooper, and Cliff Cooper — and through all who were shaped by his example and leadership.
Following the passing of rodeo legend Roy Cooper, numerous tributes have been shared by fellow athletes and friends, reflecting on his profound impact on the sport of Rodeo and in their personal lives.
“Roy Cooper helped me build Cinderella Horses with the finest roping horses. I had a good 14 year run mounting some of the best calf ropers, a steer roper and now young cowboys and cowgirls that just need a good horse to take care of each other. I met so many great friends via Roy that I will be eternally grateful to Roy for this chapter in my life.
Karen Herbst Owner of Cinderella Horses
“Roy Cooper was a roping revolutionary who changed the rodeo game for the rest of us. His dedication and skill set a new standard in the sport.”
Pam Minick Rodeo Broadcaster / Former Miss Rodeo America
“When you say, think or watch tie-down roping, there’s a few names that will always come first – Roy Cooper is the first! He single-handedly changed the sport forever.”
Joe Beaver Eight-Time World Champion Tie-Down Roper
“He started the winning tradition here. Southeastern went on to win five National Championships in a row, and that record’s never been broken. It changed the game here at Southeastern and the expectations for sure.”
Christi Braudrick Southeastern Oklahoma State University Rodeo Coach
“This hurts like never before. Rodeo will never be the same. The sports world lost Kobe Bryant, and rodeo lost Roy Cooper.”
Cody Ohl Six-Time World Champion Tie Down Roper
“Roy was a fierce competitor. He brought a sense of urgency to the tie-down roping world. If you want to compete and win, from now on times have changed. Roy Cooper changed it all.”
Rocky Patterson Four-Time Steer Roping World Champion
“Heartbroken to hear the passing of Roy Cooper, an eight-time world champion calf roper and a true legend in the arena. He inspired generations of cowboys, and his legacy lives on.”
Andra Estes Beatty Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame Inductee
For those who were unable to attend, a full Celebration of Life broadcast will air on The Cowboy Channel on Friday, June 6, 2025.
About Roy Cooper Roy Cooper was one of professional rodeo’s most iconic athletes, known for his unmatched talent in tie-down roping, relentless work ethic, and humble sportsmanship. A native of West Texas, Cooper earned eight world championships and was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1979. Beyond his achievements in the arena, he was a devoted father and mentor who inspired generations of cowboys through both example and encouragement.
Cooper had been single since 2001 and dedicated much of his later life to his family, his ranch, and the sport he loved. His legacy continues through his sons — Clint, Tuf, and Cliff Cooper — and the countless individuals impacted by his leadership and generosity.
Our condolences go out to his sons and family. His presence here on earth will be greatly missed.
