Nicholas Franklin Carico, 47, of Chester passed away on Friday, January 30, 2026. Born December 1, 1978, he was the son of Gary Carico and Sharon Orr. He was preceded in death by his stepfather, Randy Messenger.

After graduating high school, Nick proudly served in the United States Navy for approximately four years. He was stationed aboard the USS Cape St. George, completing three deployments to the Middle East.

Following his military service, Nick pursued higher education at The Ohio State University, where he completed a triple major, earning two bachelor’s degrees and later completed his Juris Doctorate. After law school, he worked for approximately two years with the Ohio State Attorney General’s Office, gaining valuable experience in public service before relocating to Virginia.

In Virginia, he dedicated over 15 years of his life to the Chesterfield County Police Department, where he served his community with professionalism and integrity.

Outside of his career, he had a fierce passion for history, finding meaning in preserving the past, understanding its lessons, and sharing that knowledge with others. He was a Civil War reenactor, a lifetime member of the Chesterfield Historical Society, and a former member of the Richmond Civil War Round Table.

Nicholas and his wife faithfully attended The Heights Baptist Church since 2013. His faith was not only something he studied, but something he lived daily. He had a deep passion for sharing the message of Jesus and believed strongly in the power of faith to guide, comfort, and change lives. Whether through quiet conversation or simple acts of kindness, Nicholas wanted everyone he met to know Christ. His greatest hope was that his life would point others toward faith, truth, and grace.

He is survived by his loving wife of 17 years, Kristen Marie Carico; beloved son, Gabriel Alexander Carico; parents, Gary Carico and wife, Barb and Sharon Carico Messenger; siblings, Brandi Collins and husband, Vincent, Duston Carico and wife, Llindsay; numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family members.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at The Heights Baptist Church, 17201 US-1, South Chesterfield, VA 23834. Interment will follow at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 in the Virginia Veterans Cemetery at Amelia, 10300 Pridesville Road, Amelia Court House, VA 23002. The family will receive friends Tuesday evening February 10, 2026 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at The Heights Baptist Church. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes and Crematory, 2033 Boulevard. Online condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.