Robert Anthony "Tony" Cooper

Robert Anthony “Tony” Cooper, 51, of Bella Vista, passed away peacefully at home on March 29, listening to his favorite song, “The Pot” by Tool. He was born October 15, 1974, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Robert Steven Cooper and Deborah Ann Thompson.

Tony moved to Northwest Arkansas from Coweta, Oklahoma, on July 1, 2025, and quickly fell in love with the life he built there. That chapter of his life brought him closer to the people and values that meant the most his wife, Terri Tolbert; his faith in God; and a renewed sense of peace and purpose. He got sober, began attending church, spent more time building and creating, and truly found a sense of home.

Above all, Tony was a devoted father to six children, whom he loved deeply and unconditionally. His family was his greatest pride, and he cherished every moment spent with them. He was also someone who never met a stranger. Tony loved all his friends and family fiercely, and his warmth, humor, and open heart left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.

Tony had a deep passion for music and expressed it through playing drums and guitar in several bands over the years. He loved listening to his favorite artists, including Led Zeppelin, Ozzy Osbourne, and Tool. He also found joy in cooking, building, being outdoors, hunting, fishing, and spending time on the river. His dogs Jet and Isabel held a special place in his heart, and he treasured every moment with them.

He was preceded in death by his Papa Jim, Mamaw Betsy, Mamaw Mary, and his beloved dogs, Jet “Jetpack” and Isabel.

Tony is survived by his father, Robert Steven Cooper and wife Lana; his mother, Deborah Ann Richards and husband Charles; his wife, Teresa “Terri” Tolbert; his children: Justice Dodson (Emma), Jeremiah Cooper, Zack Cooper, River Cooper, Courtney Bonner (Zandrew), and Ciera Cooper; his brothers, James Cooper (Sara) and Corey Cooper (Brooke); one granddaughter, Lillian Cooper; and his nephew, Jack Cooper.

A celebration of Tony’s life will be Sunday, April 12, 2026 at 4:00pm at the Boman Twin Event Center, 2909 S. Sheridan Rd. Tulsa, Oklahoma 74129.