A series of metal complexes of Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) have been synthesized with the Schiff base derived from thiocarbohydrazide and 8-formyl-7-hydroxy-4-methylcoumarin. The structures of the complexes have been proposed by elemental analyses, molar conductance, spectral (IR, UV-Vis, ESR and FAB-mass), magnetic, thermal and electrochemical studies. These complexes are soluble in DMF and DNISO and molar conductance values indicate that they are non-electrolytes. Elemental analyses of the complexes confirm stoichiometry ML center dot 2H(2)O [M=Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II)]. Spectroscopic studies indicate coordination occurs through phenolic oxygen after deprotonation and nitrogen of azomethine. The Schiff base and its complexes have also been screened for antibacterial (Escherichia coli, Streptococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and antifungal activities (Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus and cladosporium) by the MIC method. The brine shrimp bioassay was also carried out to study their in vitro cytotoxic properties.