Carlos Gulisao, 83, of Colonial Heights passed away on Tuesday, August 11, 2026. Born December 11, 1942 in Maunawili, Hawaii, he was the son of the late Rufino and Miguela Golisao and was also preceded in death by his sisters, Dolly Anongos and Goldie Castillo; brothers Joseph, Albert, Gary and Mareno Gulisao.

Carlos devoted 30 years of his life to the United States Army, having served and toured during the Vietnam War. He retired after 30 distinguished years as a Sergeant Major (E-9). His military path included overseas assignments in Japan and Germany, but a central pillar of his service was spent at Fort Lee. There, he played a critical role in the operations of the Troop Support Agency (TSA) and the Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA), ensuring troops and their families were cared for with precision and reliability.

After retiring, Carlos brought that same work ethic and logistical expertise to the healthcare sector. He spent a number of years managing supply chains for several Richmond-area hospitals, ensuring medical personnel had the vital resources needed to care for patients, before taking a well-earned second retirement.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Carlos was a man who embraced life's simple pleasures and great adventures. He had a passion for travel, with a particular love for Las Vegas, drawn time and again to its unique desert landscape and vibrant atmosphere. At home, he found joy in his hobbies, whether he was carefully building his extensive coin collection, meeting friends for a casual round of golf, or spending an afternoon at the bowling alley.

Above all else, Carlos was a family man. Nothing meant more to him than gathering with those he loved, sharing stories, and spending quiet, meaningful time together. He leaves to cherish his memory a loving wife of 56 years, Joanna Gulisao; daughter, Michelle Garcia and husband, José; grandson, Daniel Garcia; sister, Betty Ann Holmberg and husband, Joe, Lianne Oates-Golisao, Pamela Mariano and husband, Jeff, Carol Porter and husband, Bob; brother, Reggie Gulisao and wife, Tamara; and numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Interment will follow in Southlawn Memorial Park. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the funeral service on Tuesday from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Carlos’ name to a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.