Who is Elsie Norris from Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit and what is their importance?

Elsie Norris, known as "testifying Elsie" was one of Jean's closest friends. Elsie spent time with Jean while she was in the hospital, helped her with school projects, and made Jean a sampler in sewing class. When the church confronted Jean about her sexuality, Elsie was in the hospital. Elsie said that had she been there..... she would have protected her.