Bill Greene/Globe Staff

Madison Sunderland of Ludlow placed her hand over her heart as the procession for fallen Officer Kevin Ambrose rolled past.

By Martine Powers Globe Staff

SPRINGFIELD — Thousands of police officers from around the region gathered at Saint Catherine of Siena Church today in honor of Kevin Ambrose, the Springfield officer shot and killed Monday while responding to a routine domestic call in the Sixteen Acres neighborhood.

Ambrose was remembered for his heroism and commitment to “the job,” as well as his sharp humor and love for his family — especially his 4-year-old granddaughter, Victoria.

Standing in front of the fallen policeman’s family, friends, and colleagues, Police Commissioner William J. Fitchet promised that Ambrose did not give his life in vain.

“Years from now, men and women who we don’t even know will speak of him with reverence and humility,” Fitchet said.

“Sleep well tonight, citizens of Springfield,” the police commissioner continued, “Officer Kevin Ambrose, Badge No. 7, will be on patrol.”

The Rev. Joseph Soranno, Ambrose’s pastor at St. Cecilia Church in Wilbraham, said Ambrose was “as proud as proud could be when he was with Victoria.”

Ambrose also spoke often of the joys he experienced in his 30 years of marriage, and the sense of achievement he felt while coaching his son’s baseball and soccer teams.

Ray Muise, a long-time friend and a former colleague of Ambrose, prompted peals of laughter from the crowd as he talked about Ambrose’s humorous side.

Muise called Ambrose “a hero cop” who, he was certain, was looking down on the funeral proceedings from heaven.

“I also know what he would be saying,” Muise joked, “and I apologize because I cannot repeat it in a church.”