Steve Cooper 1959 - 2006

Beloved Son, Brother, Nephew, Cousin and friend to many . . . Steven Lane Cooper left this world as he lived in it, conscious of God, fearless of death, love for his family and at peace on May 14, 2006. Born March 18, 1959 in San Antonio, Texas with eyes full of wonderment and infectious smile, Steven was loyal, dedicated, unselfish and rich in enduring values. His love for music from gospel to rock and blessed with a set of pipes put him in the forefront as lead vocalist for local music groups, Juggernaut and SA Slayer. Steven's lust for life and laughter will be missed by everyone he touched. He is survived by his parents, Billy Cooper and Faye Franks; brothers, Wade and Donnal Cooper; step-mother, Phyllis Cooper; uncle, Donnal Rancher; and by numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, step-brothers and a host of friends. A Private Memorial has been scheduled and the family has requested that in lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

more info:http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=52367

In the early 80's in san antonio The local metal scene was bombarded with some of the most promising metal bands to ever come out of Texas, Watchtower,Syrus,Mercenary,Ritual,Wyzard,and many many more .BUT the one band that really made a buzzwas SA Slayer,Fronted by Steve Cooper.For many who don't know SA Slayer and LA Slayer came out on the scene at almost the same time. With LA. Slayer having released their debut album just months before SA Slayers album was to be released and in a short  legal battle LA slayer won the rights to the name. Leaving SA Slayer to release their debut album under the name SA Slayer. Forever being known to the metal community as San Antonio Slayer . After a short 2 album career the band broke up and the members went on to achieve success in their own bands.Ron Jarzombic was the guitarist from SA Slayer,And as many of you know went on to WATCHTOWER after Billy Whites departure. I met Steve Cooper in 1989 and i was still a kid in high school I was auditioning Vocalists for a band i was forming and while Steve Didn't quite fit the picture We became great Friends. We lost touch over all these years but i can still remember all the good times we had . He took me to the ranch with him once And I'll never forget how crazy the guy was. He freaking got on a Bull and rode the Thing. He enjoyed bullriding and as corny as it sounds now it was the way he lived life . ON The Edge and now looking back I see how his music reflected the same thing .. it was over the edge .. To the extreme ,as was his vocal style.for any one who wants some info on  SA Slayer. try this link .

http://www.metal-archives.com/band.php?id=110

RIP ,My Metal Brother.