Board of Directors

Jesse W. Jones, Jr is a third generation Homebuilder and second generation Seabrook resident. When not building some of Seabrook's premier waterfront homes, he can be found working on various outdoor community projects. Jesse is an active Texas Master Gardener and holds a Class II Floral and Nursery License. Some of his member-ships include: Texas Nursery and Landscaping Association, Native Plant Society of Texas, American Community Gardens Association, American Public Gardens Association, and Seabrook Opens Spaces and Trails Committee. Jesse has been with his wife Diane for 44 years and they are both active in OneLife Community Church.

Rhonda Thompson is vice president and co-chair of the Fundraising and Finance Committee. Her love of the community garden stems from her experience chairing the
Carothers Coastal Gardens Task Force II in 2020-21. Since 2022, she has served on the Seabrook Planning and Zoning Commission. Rhonda retired in 2018 as vice president for University Advancement at University of Houston-Clear Lake and has been a member of numerous nonprofit boards. She holds a BA and MA-Sociology from the University of Texas-Arlington and brings 20+ years experience in nonprofit management and fundraising.

Nemo Jackson serves as the garden manager and chair of the garden committee; instrumental in establishing the garden from its inception. With a background in design and construction, he brings a diverse array of skills and knowledge to his role. Nemo's passion for plants began in childhood, evolving from watering plants to a lifelong fascination with growing and nurturing them. His early school experience in agriculture, coupled with work at various greenhouses, tree farms, and nurseries, have shaped his expertise.

Nemo has a particular fondness for cottage gardens, with a focus on pollinator and ornamental plants. He is especially enthusiastic about Hibiscus, Milkweed, and rare plant species. As a Galveston County Master Gardener, Nemo is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and passion with the community.

In addition to his gardening endeavors, Nemo is a member of the Open Space and Trails Committee, where he collaborates with various partners to enhance green spaces and beautify the City of Seabrook. 

Samantha is the secretary/treasurer of the board, co-chair of the fundraising & finance committee, and a member of the garden committee. She has worn many hats at Carothers Coastal Gardens since its creation in 2021 - from volunteer coordinator, social media & communications, marketing, and more. In these roles, Samantha's multi-faceted talents come from her career in residential real estate and her lifelong love of learning.

As a certified Texas Master Naturalist, Samantha brings a wealth of knowledge about sustainability and the area's natural resources. She is excited to help create something important in the community, and expand the programs that the organization offers.