The Hon. Gerald Francis McGarel-Hogg was born on 6 August 1868, the fourth son of James MacNaghten McGarel-Hogg, 1st Baron Magheramorne of Magheramorne and Hon. Caroline Elizabeth Emma Douglas-Pennant.

He was educated at Eton. He lived in London and Eastbourne and was a member of the town’s Sussex Club as well as the Carlton and Wellington in London. His London address was 17 Grosvenor Gardens, Knightsbridge.

He was commissioned into the 4th Battalion, Royal Welch Fusiliers before being promoted Lieutenant and posted as Assistant Adjutant for the 10th County of London Volunteer Regiment. He fought in the First World War.

He was initiated after the Armistice on 26 February 1919, whilst still serving with the 10th.

He died on 29 June 1942 at age 73. He never married.