This article explains how to change the default font in Mozilla Thunderbird for composing new messages. The instructions below apply to Thunderbird for Windows, but the process is similar on Macs.
Thunderbird How to Change Default Email Font
To set your own default font for composing new messages in Mozilla Thunderbird:
Select the menu icon (the three lines) in the top right corner, then select Account Settings.
Select 'Compose and Address' under your email address in the left sidebar.