Worked as a Labourer. Son of Henry McArthur, the Sailors Home, later The Mariners' Asylum, Greenock. In civil life he lived at 4 Sir Michael Street. 

Enlisted 24/10/14. Joined 1st Battalion at Crystal Palace. With Drake Bn A/285 from 23rd February 1915 until 29th April 1915 when he was killed. Buried left edge of Gully Ravine.