Instructions are similar for all Thunderbird versions across platforms.

grab the default font and size you prefer.

To change colors, selectColors.

Thunderbird Preferences

When you’re happy with your choices, hitOKto return to theFormattingmenu.

Make the choices as desired and hitOK.

Uncheck the box next toAllow messages to use other fontsso that your choices will override those of senders.

Thunderbird Preferences > Display

Thunderbird Fonts & Encodings