Rodeo World Mourns Devastating Loss: Legendary Cowboy Roy Cooper, 69, Dies in Tragic House Fire Near Decatur, Texas

Decatur, TX — The rodeo world is mourning the heartbreaking loss of one of its greatest champions, Roy Cooper, after a devastating house fire claimed his life on the evening of April 29, 2025. The fire occurred at Cooper’s residence on County Road 3051, just outside of Decatur in Wise County. He was 69 years old.

According to local emergency officials, the fire was reported around 7:08 p.m. When firefighters arrived, the home was already engulfed in flames. Despite their efforts to contain the blaze and search the structure, Cooper was found deceased inside the home.

Authorities have not released an official cause of the fire, but an investigation is currently underway by local fire marshals in coordination with the Wise County Sheriff’s Office. No foul play is suspected at this time, and Cooper is believed to have been alone in the residence when the fire broke out.

Roy Cooper, affectionately known in the rodeo circuit as the “Super Looper,” was a legend whose legacy spanned decades. Born in Hobbs, New Mexico in 1955, Cooper rose to fame as one of the most accomplished tie-down ropers in professional rodeo history. In 1976, he made an explosive debut by winning the PRCA Rookie of the Year award, and he went on to secure eight world championships—including the All-Around Cowboy title in 1983.

Cooper was inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1979 and is widely credited with revolutionizing calf roping with his speed, technique, and fierce competitiveness. But beyond his achievements in the arena, Roy Cooper was also known for his humble character, mentorship of young rodeo athletes, and deep devotion to family.

The rodeo bloodline runs deep in the Cooper household. His sons, including Tuf Cooper—a multiple-time world champion roper—have carried on his winning legacy. His son-in-law, Trevor Brazile, is the most decorated cowboy in PRCA history with 26 world titles to his name.

News of Cooper’s death has rocked the rodeo community, with tributes pouring in from fans, athletes, and organizations nationwide. The Texas High School Rodeo Association released a statement mourning the loss of a man they described as “a legend not just in the arena, but in life.”

“He inspired generations of cowboys with his grit, skill, and passion,” the statement read. “Roy Cooper’s name will forever be etched into the history of rodeo, and his spirit will live on in the athletes he mentored and the fans who cheered for him.”

Saddled with grief, the community around Decatur and far beyond is now reflecting on a life that blazed a trail through the sport of rodeo—only to be extinguished far too soon.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Roy Cooper is survived by his children, grandchildren, extended family, and the countless competitors and fans who looked up to him.

He may have left the arena for the final time, but his legend will ride on.