by Phyllis Bell-Davis
How does someone go from more than 25 years in banking to launching a brand-new career in an entirely different world? If you ask Zonnetta Marie Thomas, she’ll tell you: with resilience, purpose, and a whole lot of heart.
Zonnetta is the newest member of the American Red Cross of North Florida team, stepping into the role of Regional Philanthropy Officer. In this position, she’s diving into the work of identifying, engaging, cultivating, and stewarding donors who help fuel the Red Cross mission—bringing relief and hope when it’s needed most.
“Although I knew I was ready to move on from the type of banking work I had always done, I was still looking forward to the perks of being a longtime employee—the stay at the Waldorf, the watch…” she shares with a laugh. “But that didn’t happen. I was laid off after 13 years with the bank.”
Zonnetta pivoted quickly, launching a virtual career coaching business in 2018 after earning her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Edward Waters University. She spent a year coaching, motivating, and uplifting clients—until life took an unexpected turn.
On January 1, 2020, Zonnetta’s youngest child, Zarrell, was tragically killed by a drunk driver. “How could I coach or motivate anyone when I was in the middle of my own grief? I couldn’t. I shut the business down and went inward.”
But even in heartbreak, there was a gift.
Before Zarrell’s passing, he convinced his mom to move closer to him. “We lived on opposite sides of town, and he wanted us to be nearby. I’m so grateful for that time—we laughed more, spent quality time together with his wife and three children. In my grief, I can still be thankful. God gave me 27 beautiful years with him, and made sure we had that time together.”
Today, Zonnetta channels her energy into honoring that love through service—to her family, to her community, and now to the Red Cross.
Each year, her extended family—including her partner of 25 years, Kendra, her other children Trinidy and Loniesha, and their families—gathers to honor Zarrell’s memory. One of her grandsons dubbed it “Zarrell’s Merriment Day,” a reflection of his joyful spirit. “Energy doesn’t die,” Zonnetta says. “We celebrate the way he lived—with laughter and love.”
And that energy? It’s part of what defines Zonnetta today. “What does a fundraiser look like? I don’t know. But I know I can’t be anyone but myself. I won’t hide my energy or my personality—if I did, the job wouldn’t work. I’ve only been here two months and seven days, and yes, I’m still learning. But I’m all in.”
The 57-year-old Boston native, who’s also lived in L.A., Atlanta, and Virginia, brings not only financial savvy but a commanding presence, thanks in part to her background in community theatre. She’s starred in local productions at Theatre Jacksonville, The 5 & Dime, and Players-By-The-Sea—and even rubbed shoulders with Tyler Perry cast members in Atlanta.
One of her favorite roles was Wiletta Mayer in Trouble in Mind, a play-within-a-play that explores racism in the entertainment industry.
“Wiletta stood her ground, even if it meant losing the spotlight,” Zonnetta says. “That’s me—I lead with integrity. As the first African American woman in this role for our region, I want to own my space and make a difference.”
Zonnetta’s introduction to the Red Cross mission came fast and personal. Just three days into her new job in February, her nephew’s home was damaged in a fire. Unaware that she had just joined the Red Cross, he told her how impressed he was by the compassion and support he received—from emergency financial assistance to temporary housing to follow-up care.
“I had no idea the Red Cross even responded to home fires,” she admits. “Now I know—and now I know why I’m here.”
Joel Walker, Regional Volunteer Services Officer, says Zonnetta’s impact is already being felt. “She’s a breath of fresh air. Her positivity and perspective are exactly what we need. She brings a different lens to the work—and that’s a good thing.”
And each morning, Zonnetta finds a moment to ground herself. “I park in the same spot, walk by the river, and give thanks. I’m grateful to be part of something bigger than myself. There’s a lot to learn, but I’m here to grow, to give, and to shine.”
As she puts it: “I plan to shine my light so brightly, everyone will need shades.”
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