Hendrikje van Andel-Schipper died peacefully in her sleep, according to the home's director, Johan Beijering.

"She was very clear mentally right up to the end, but the physical ailments were increasing," Beijering said. "She said, 'It's been nice, but the man upstairs says it's time to go.'"

Known as "Henny," she lived in Hoogeveen since World War II, moving to the Westerkim elderly home when she was 106.

A fan of the soccer club Ajax, she was born in 1890 and celebrated her 115th birthday on June 29. Her status as "oldest person" was recognized by Guinness Book of World Records last year.

She advised others who wanted a long life to "keep breathing" and eat pickled herring, a favorite Dutch snack.